HOT DEVELOPMENT: The long-awaited FED Beige Book document has been released! Here's what you need to know

The Beige Book, published by the FED at regular intervals and providing valuable information about the US economy, has finally been released. Here are the details to be known from the document:

• General economic activity has shown a slight increase since mid-January. General expectations regarding economic activity are mildly optimistic in the coming months.
• Prices have shown a moderate increase in most regions, but a few regions have reported that the rate of price increase has accelerated compared to the previous reporting period.
• Most of the contacts in the region expect customs duties to lead to price increases, while some individual reports show that companies have raised prices in advance. *While the residential real estate market presents a mixed outlook, the report indicated that inventory constraints persist and there is a slight decrease in construction activities for both residential and non-residential units. Some individuals in the sector also expressed concerns about the impact of customs duties on lumber and other material prices. He said that increasing uncertainty in various regions, migration, and other issues are affecting current and future labor demand.
• Fees have been increasing at a modest to moderate pace, slightly slower than in previous reports, while a few regions noted easing fee pressures.
• Many regions noted that rising prices for eggs and other food components are affecting food processors and restaurants.
• The report stated, 'While consumer spending generally decreased, there was strong demand for essential goods, but price sensitivity towards discretionary products increased, especially among low-income consumers.' At the same time, prices 'rose moderately,' and in some regions, prices increased more rapidly compared to the previous period. The Fed said that 'unusual weather conditions' in some regions weakened demand in the entertainment and hotel sectors.