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Friday's Afternoon Update

Business inflation expectations stay stable

For the third consecutive month, firms report they anticipate 1.8 percent inflation over the coming year. The March "Business Inflation Expectations" survey (BIE) examines if financial market volatility has changed firms' hiring and capital investment planning for 2016. This month, respondents indicated that, on average, they expect unit costs to rise 1.8 percent over the next 12 months. Inflation uncertainty rose to 2.4 percent. » More survey results and insights here.
The BIE survey is conducted by the Federal Reserve bank of Atlanta headquartered within the Sixth District, which encompasses Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and sections of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

Florida critical battleground in likely Hillary Clinton vs. Donald Trump contest

The millions of Florida primary votes provide some clues about the election in November — when the state could decide whether Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump wins the presidency. More from the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

Will Obama's visit boost US-Cuba ag trade?

President Barack Obama's historic trip to Cuba on Sunday could be a game changer for U.S. agribusiness to recapture lost market share. Other industries like tourism also stand to benefit from warmer ties with the island nation. More from CNBC.

Global Pet Expo shows off weird, wonderful, waste-worthy

In the 6.3 miles of display aisles at the Global Pet Expo in Orlando this week, one overriding theme becomes clear: Someone is making big money off poop. More from the Orlando Sentinel.

Florida Poly accreditation delayed

Florida's newest university will miss the original deadline for getting accredited, a designation that can affect students' job prospects and ability to receive financial aid. More from the Tampa Bay Business Journal.

Business Profile
Fighting cancer with barbecue sauce

florida Hardwood Barbecue competes with a goal besides winning. The team donates much of its proceeds to different organizations and people in need, including Hope Children’s Home, Florida Baptist Children’s Home and cancer fighter and friend Michelle Friend Dearhart.

» More from the Plant City Observer.

Around the State
Lantana's on the road to recovery

around the state The site preparation work under way where a state tuberculosis hospital once stood represents the convergence of three trends in tiny Lantana in central Palm Beach County: Infill redevelopment, investment funds opening local offices and state property divesture.

» Access full story.