Flash Index Inches Up Slowly in September

A monthly indicator of economic activity shows the same slow, gradual recovery.  

The author of the monthly University of Illinois Flash Index says September’s figure of 103.2 is good, but showing the pace of recovery is slower than recessions in 2001 and 1991.  

U of I Economist Fred Giertz says a few years ago, he would have expected a sharper rebound, but calls this recovery an exception to the rule. 

Anything over 100 signifies economic growth, but the figure was already at 101.0 6 months ago.  

Illinois’ unemployment rate for August was still 9.1 percent, high by historical standards.  The Flash Index is based on individual, corporate, and sales tax receipts.