Fed Data Shows Labor Economy Anchoring Consumer Spending

The latest Federal Reserve Beige Book, released on Wednesday (March 4), describes a U.S. economy advancing at a restrained pace, a finding that corresponds with  PYMNTS Intelligence data showing that millions of workers remain employed yet financially unsettled, while still opening their wallets to underpin economic growth.

Across the country, economic activity advanced modestly in several regions while stagnating in others. The Beige Book reports that “overall economic activity increased at a slight to moderate pace in seven of the twelve Federal Reserve Districts,” while five districts reported flat or declining conditions, highlighting an uneven national expansion.

That uneven trajectory resembles the dynamic visible in the PYMNTS Intelligence, WorkWhile and Ingo Payments research on the Labor Economy. According to the Wage to Wallet Index, roughly 60 million U.S. workers earning $25 an hour or less make up what can be  defined as the Labor Economy, and many of these households report improving job security but little improvement in their financial outlook.

In both datasets, the message is consistent. Employment may be holding steady, but the lived experience of many households remains financially tight.

Consumers Remain Cautious

The Beige Book portrays a consumer sector that continues to spend, albeit carefully. Retail activity rose modestly in several districts, yet many contacts reported that shoppers were more selective in their purchases.

As the report states, “consumer spending increased slightly on balance,” though many districts said that sales were dampened by economic uncertainty, heightened price sensitivity and lower-income consumers pulling back on spending.

Automobile sales were particularly soft, with several districts citing affordability constraints. Harsh winter weather also suppressed foot traffic in some regions, further complicating the retail environment.

Businesses reported similar caution in their outlooks. While commercial lending showed signs of strength, other areas remained subdued. Residential real estate activity softened in many regions due to limited housing inventory and persistent affordability challenges.

Stable but Shifting Job Market

The labor market appears broadly stable across the country. According to the Fed on Wednesday, employment levels were generally unchanged in recent weeks, with seven of the 12 districts reporting no change in hiring.

Several factors contributed to the slower pace of hiring. Businesses cited softer demand, rising nonlabor costs and general uncertainty about economic conditions.

Wages continued to rise at a modest or moderate pace in most regions, particularly for skilled workers. However, firms also reported rising costs for benefits such as health insurance premiums.

Companies are also exploring new ways to improve productivity. Some firms noted growing interest in automation and artificial intelligence, although most described these technologies as tools for efficiency rather than replacements for workers.

Labor Economy’s Financial Divide

PYMNTS Intelligence, WorkWhile and Ingo Payments data highlights why employment alone does not capture the full picture of worker well-being.

The Wage to Wallet Index shows that sentiment among Labor Economy workers remains subdued even as job outlook indicators improve. On a 100-point scale, sentiment among these workers stood at 49.4 in February, reflecting persistent financial stress despite steady employment conditions.

Many workers are compensating by taking on additional income streams. Nearly 1 in 5 Labor Economy workers reported performing regular side work in the past six months, often combining several smaller jobs to supplement their primary income.

For many households, this side work is not optional. The Labor Economy data indicates that 41.4% of Labor Economy workers rely on side income to cover basic living expenses, illustrating how employment alone may not fully support household finances.

Regional Trends Reveal Mixed Economy

District-level reports further illustrate the uneven nature of current economic conditions.

As seen in the chart below, seven districts reported somewhat positive domestic economic conditions, while three described conditions as somewhat negative and two characterized activity as mixed.

Consumer spending signals were similarly varied. Six districts reported slight increases in spending, three reported declines and three described conditions as mixed.

Despite current uncertainties, many contacts expressed cautious optimism about the months ahead.

As the Beige Book notes, “economic expectations were optimistic, with most districts expecting slight to moderate growth in the coming months.” Whether that growth translates into greater financial security for households may depend on factors that extend beyond employment levels alone.