SREDA’s Q3-2018 Economic dashboard for the Saskatoon Region is a B-. SREDA’s economic indicators for quarter 3 of 2018 suggest the local economy is leveling out. Unemployment did increase to 7.2 per cent in the last quarter although net job creation reached 5,000, that’s more than double compared to 2017. The housing market continues to correct from a period of high supply, so while residential housing starts and building permits are down, commercial permit levels remain strong. Economists are however forecasting larger growth rates in 2019. The economic dashboard report says when the housing and job market correct, confidence for consumers should strengthen resulting in greater growth rates in retail sales and an overall stronger economy.