The June index reading is 46 points, or 77
percent, above the index cyclical low of 59.9 in 2009. The index has averaged
102 points over the first half of 2012, 11 points above the index average for
all of 2011.
"The Michigan economy pushed further ahead in June,
with our Michigan Economic Activity Index up strongly for the second
month," said Robert Dye, Chief Economist at Comerica Bank. "The
rate of job creation has slowed over the first two quarters of the year as U.S.
auto sales have plateaued around a 14 million unit annual sales rate in 2012.
But outside of durable goods manufacturing, we are seeing ongoing gains.
Housing markets statewide are improving as sales and prices increase. New home
construction remains low, but is expected to increase to meet pent up
demand."
The Michigan
Economic Activity Index consists of seven variables: nonfarm payrolls, exports,
sales tax revenues, hotel occupancy rates, continuing claims for unemployment
insurance, building permits, and motor vehicle production. All data are
seasonally adjusted, as necessary, and indexed to a base year of 2004.
According to the Michigan Association of Realtors, the number of single family homes sold
in Michigan rose 14 percent in July compared to one year earlier. The July 2012 average sales price was $116,116, a 6.55
percent increase over the 2011.
Overall,
Michigan is leading the country in economic recovery, according to the Detroit News. The dropping unemployment
rate, upswing in home sales and increase in consumer spending are all evidence
of a positive outlook for the Great Lakes state.
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