Economy
November 12, 2018
Beige Book Shows Concern Over Rising Costs, Trade Uncertainty
Written by Tim Triplett
Economic activity expanded across the United States with the majority of the 12 Federal Reserve Districts reporting modest to moderate growth in the September-October period, according to the Fed’s Beige Book released late last month. However, several Districts indicated that firms faced rising materials and shipping costs, uncertainties over the trade environment and difficulties finding qualified workers.
Demand for transportation services remained strong. Labor shortages were broadly noted and were linked to wage increases and constrained growth. Reports on commercial and residential real estate were mixed, although several Districts saw rising home prices and low levels of inventory.
