Bankers see bright spots in struggling economy

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) -- Although economic conditions remain weak, rural bankers in 11 Midwest and Plains states say there are some bright spots.

The bankers who responded to the monthly Rural Mainstreet survey cited small increases in farmland prices, new hiring and banking activity in March.

The survey's overall index rose to 18.7 from February's record low of 16.9. A year ago, the index was 46.3. An index greater than 50 indicates a growing economy over the next three to six months.

The survey covers Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming.

The survey's confidence index remained in negative territory for a sixth straight month. The March figure was 35.9, compared with February's 21.2.

------

On the Net:

Creighton University economic surveys: http://www2.creighton.edu/business/economicoutlook