Flash Index shows economic activity has stalled in Illinois

Posted on December 3, 2020
On a scale by which 100 is the break-even point between growth and contraction, the index is 95.6 for a second month in a row. (Photo U of I Flash Index)

 

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – The economic recovery is taking a pause, according to the Flash index, the University of Illinois’ monthly measure of the state’s activity.

On a scale by which 100 is the break-even point between growth and contraction, the index is 95.6 for a second month in a row.

However, the stock market – which study author and economics professor Fred Giertz says is a forward-looking measure – performed remarkably in November, despite the coronavirus’ surges. Giertz says it’s positive that there’s news of a vaccine, as well as a likely end to the presidential election once and for all.

The index is a weighted average of consumer spending, corporate earnings, and personal income.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]

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