Anderson Herald in Anderson, Indiana

Indicators Point To Improving Economy

The government reported a 1.9 percent rise in the leading indicators index for June marking four consecutive gains and the strongest reading since last October. A Commerce Department trade update showed a record second quarter merchandise surplus of 3.5 billion with exports and imports down, while farm exports reached a record 21.6 billion for the year. Agriculture Secretary Earl L Butz noted a 12 billion surplus in agricultural trade aiding dollar stability and oil import costs.