Report: Interior activities boost economy

Energy development, recreation and other activities on public lands managed by the Department of Interior contributed more than $10 billion to the Colorado economy and supported more than 60,000 jobs during the 2012 fiscal year, according to the latest results of an annual report prepared by the federal agency. “This report demonstrates that the department […]

Improving outlook bolsters consumer confidence

A monthly measure of consumer confidence has edged up as expectations for improving business and labor prospects offset less upbeat assessments of current conditions. The Conference Board reported that its Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) rose five-tenths of a point to 81.5 for August. A component of the index tracking short-term expectations advanced, while a component […]

Leading index signals growth through 2013

A monthly index forecasting economic performance in the United States continues to signal growth through the end of the year. The Conference Board reported that its Leading Economic Index (LEI) advanced six-tenths of a percent to 96 in July. With the latest gain, the index has climbed 2 percent over the past six months, almost […]

BREAKING: Mesa County jobless rate retreats

Phil Castle, The Business Times The Mesa County unemployment rate has resumed its downward trend, but still has a ways to go to match lower state and national rates. At 8.3 percent, the seasonally unadjusted jobless rate in Mesa County in July was seven-tenths of a point lower than June and 1.3 points lower than […]

Colorado ag exports grow during first half of 2013

Exports of agricultural products from Colorado totaled nearly $726 million during the first half of 2013 as increases in some foreign markets more than offset decreases in other markets. At $725.6 million, the dollar volume of ag exports edged up about 2 percent over the first half of 2012, but constitutes a 20 percent increase […]

Investment advisor: Don’t worry, be happy

Phil Castle, The Business Times After years of fretting over scary stories about impending financial disaster, investors should enjoy a far happier tale in a return to normal conditions and the prospect for continued stock market gains. In sum, Doug May offers this advice: “Don’t worry, be happy.” May, president and chief investment officer of […]

Business on the Quad offers marketing opportunity

Phil Castle, The Business Times Leave it to members of a university entrepreneurship club to come up with a creative way to not only raise money, but also promote connections between businesses and students. The Entrepreneurship Club at Colorado Mesa University once again will host Business on the Quad, an event set for 10 a.m. […]

New venue for vino: Hotel to host Winefest events

A Palisade hotel has been selected to host a series of educational and culinary events planned as part of the upcoming Colorado Mountain Wine Fest. The Wine Country Inn will serve as the venue for a wine and wineglass experience presented by glass manufacturer Riedel; a demonstration and dinner with Marcel Marino, the hotel’s new […]

Colorado merchandise exports climb to new heights

Merchandise exports from Colorado totaled a record $4.2 billion during the first half of 2013 with large increases to several markets, the International Trade Administration reported. The latest data reflects a 6 percent increase in merchandise exports from the state during the first half of 2013 compared to the same span in 2012. The dollar […]