Fed’s Beige Book shows steady US growth amid rising costs, uncertainty

A new report from the Federal Reserve has found that the U.S. economy continues to grow at a “slight to moderate” pace, with businesses generally optimistic about the outlook despite ongoing uncertainties.

The central bank's Beige Book compilation of anecdotes from businesses in the weeks leading up to Monday, Feb. 23, found that consumer spending rose slightly overall.

Manufacturing activity improved, supported by increased orders and demand linked to data centers and energy infrastructure.

Employment levels were largely stable, with most regions reporting little change in hiring, while businesses cited higher input costs, softer demand and economic uncertainty as factors limiting recruitment. Read more.