The Business Conditions Index for the nine-state Mid-American region fell for the fourth time in the past five months, according to the Creighton Economic Forecasting Group.

The July index reading of 54.1, derived from a monthly survey of supply managers, points to slowing regional growth for the next three to six months. The index is below the June reading of 54.9, but is above the growth-neutral point of 50. The trend downward could signal slow growth ahead.

The Iowa Business Conditions Index was higher, with a reading of 62.6, up from the June reading of 61.4. Results point to improving job growth and a decline in unemployment over the next three months, Creighton University economics professor Ernie Goss said in a press release.