According to a PANews report on July 16, citing financial media, the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book indicates that from late May to June, economic activity in 11 of the 12 Federal Reserve districts grew at a slight to moderate pace, while one district reported no change. Prices generally increased modestly, with 9 of the 12 districts reporting moderate price increases, 2 reporting stronger increases, and 1 reporting smaller increases, with the overall pace either flat or slowing compared to the prior period. Employment generally rose, with five districts seeing moderate, modest, or steady employment growth, while seven districts experienced little or no change. Most surveyed companies expect continued economic expansion in the coming months, but several districts noted high uncertainty regarding the outlook for fuel costs.
