Mid-America business index falls below 50

(Omaha, Nebraska-AP) -- The overall economic index for the Mid-America region that includes Oklahoma rose slightly in December, but still indicates a softening of the region's economy.

However, the index for Oklahoma remains strong.

The monthly list compiled by Creighton University economics professor Ernie Goss indicates the region's economic index is 49-point-seven, up from November's 49-point-one.

Goss rates the Sooner State's economy for December at 53, up two points from November.

Goss surveys purchasing and business leaders in nine Mid-American states to gauge business conditions.

An index above 50 indicates an expanding economy, below 50 means the economy is softening.