The Iowa Business Council’s members are less optimistic about the next six months, with the overall outlook index dropping five points, to 57, compared with last quarter, according to a report released today.

That is a two-point drop from this time last year. The reading has ranged from 35.3 to 68 over its history.

“Companies rely on certainty when charting business plans and strategic activity,” said Mike Wells, President and CEO of Wells Enterprises in Le Mars and chairman of the Iowa Business Council. “The current economic environment, both domestically and overseas, does not present itself well in that regard, which is producing tempered enthusiasm for outcomes the rest of the year.”

The biggest share of survey respondents, 48 percent, expect no change in sales or capital spending. Those who expect no change in employment, 43 percent, also overshadowed other responses. But more than a third, 38 percent, expect higher employment.