The “State of Economy” index, a combination of 5 leading indicators rose by 1.3% in August. This is the fourth consecutive monthly increase.

Particularly encouraging was the sharp rise in exports. This was matched by an increased demand for workers and a corresponding drop in the numbers of unemployed.

The economy has yet to return to “complete normality”. Despite the above, industrial production continues to fall. And the shekel is rising against most of the major currencies, placing a strain on the profitability of exports.