Economic Outlook
March survey highlights:
* The Business Conditions Index moved above growth neutral for the 16th straight month, pointing to healthy growth for the next three to six months.
* The employment index advanced to a very healthy level. Almost two-thirds of firms expect to add workers for the rest of 2018.
* Inflation gauge indicated elevated wholesale inflation. Fed rate hike likely in May.
* Exports and imports remained very healthy.
April Survey Results at a Glance:
* For a third straight month the overall index remained above growth neutral.
* Farmland price growth and agriculture-equipment sales continue to decline.
* Trade concerns slam the business confidence index
* More than three-fourths of bank CEOs reported that export markets were very important to their local economy.
*Almost one-third of bankers support the abolition of NAFTA and undertaking a new agreement.
* More than one-fifth of bankers support the elimination of oil refinery waivers to RFS obligations.
