Indicators suggest state economy strengthening

Two leading indicators suggest Minnesota's economy continues to gain strength.

The number of advertised job vacancies in Minnesota rose by 6,700 in March, according to the Conference Board's analysis of online help wanted ads.

Creighton University's Business Conditions Index for the state indicated growth for the 31st consecutive month. The index was down from February's reading of 58.3, but Minnesota still scored well.

"It's still a healthy level at 56.7, well up from growth-neutral, 50, said Ernie Goss, the Creighton University economics professor who compiles the index.

"By historical standards that's in a pretty healthy range for Minnesota. And I expect the Minnesota economy to continue to add jobs at a reasonably good rate."

Anything above 50 indicates growth. The index is based on a monthly survey of about 150 supply mangers in the state. They're polled about their spending, hiring and other economic expectations.

"The Minnesota economy continues to move along," Goss said. "And according to our survey will likely continue to see growth the next three to six months, probably on the neighborhood of 1 to 1.5 percent job growth."