NC university professor forecasts state’s economy

CHARLOTTE — A North Carolina professor who studies the state’s economy offers some predictions for the months ahead.

UNC Charlotte economics professor John Connaughton on Tuesday offers his latest look into the months ahead. He’s one of the leading voices in forecasting the North Carolina economy.

Connaughton predicted in June that unemployment would reach 11.3 percent by the end of this year. The jobless rate has been hovering around 11 percent for the past three months. New state unemployment figures are due out on Friday.

Connaughton’s previous forecast said about now North Carolina’s economy should be beginning a modest recovery that’s so weak most people won’t be able to recognize it, especially the jobless.

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