Gambling, steel, fueling northwest Indiana economy

Northwest Indiana’s economy is performing well because its dominant steel industry is lean and efficient, and its riverboat casinos continue to attract revenue, according to Jack Ablin, executive vice president and chief investment officer of Chicago-based Harris Bank.

Speaking at a luncheon this week, Ablin said steel will continue to prosper in global markets unless lawmakers begin adding tariffs or otherwise alter free markets. Quoted by the Post-Tribune of Merrillville, Ablin said he doesn’t expect the Democratic-controlled Congress to succeed in changing market dynamics before 2008.