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    July 17, 2026

    Beige Book highlights employment uptick, flags pricing uncertainty 

    Written by Kristen DiLandro

    Despite persistent pricing uncertainty, the Fed’s latest Beige Book reported that the US economy continued to expand at a modest pace with labor market conditions improving.

    Employment improved across five districts compared to just one in its last report. The manufacturing, construction, and energy sectors showed the most hiring growth. However, employers in these industries reported being conservative and cautious due to overall uncertainty. Wage growth remained moderate.

    Kristen DiLandro

    Kristen DiLandro is a reporter for Steel Market Update. Kristen focuses on the micro and macro steel market conditions informing North American spot prices. Following her agency career in advertising, she attained an MFA in Writing from Savannah College of Art and Design. Kristen can be reached at kristen@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-221-8143.

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