U of I Flash Index shows some optimism

Posted on February 2, 2021
Anything above 100 means growth, and the index has not been there since the pandemic hit. (Photo courtesy University of Illinois)

 

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – There could be reason for optimism about the state’s economy.

The University of Illinois Flash index reads 96.3 to start February, up four tenths of a point from a month ago, and the study author, economics professor Fred Giertz, says things are looking up.

“In particular, the vaccinations are starting to have an impact, and there is also a very strong pent-up demand,” says Giertz. “But people have not had a chance to spend money, and the federal government is pumping a whole lot of money into the system. The Flash index is not a predictor of the future, but, I think at least in the near term, things are going to be quite a bit better.”

Giertz’ Flash Index reviews corporate earnings, personal income, and consumer spending. Anything above 100 means growth, and the index has not been there since the pandemic hit.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]

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