Slow retail sales and hiring slowed the economy over the past month, according to a survey of bank leaders in a seven-state region.

The bank executives in the survey reported worsening economic conditions. The overall index for the region fell to 48 from March’s 51.6.

The survey, led by Creighton University economics professor Ernie Goss, includes Kansas, Colorado, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming.

The overall index ranges between zero and 100. An index of 50 or higher indicates a growing economy during the next three to six months.