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Fed Sees Slowing Jobs, Mixed Spending Signals
27 Nov
Summary
- Employers are slowing hiring and reducing hours.
- Consumer spending has softened amid persistent price pressures.
- AI is beginning to impact entry-level jobs and hiring.
The Federal Reserve's latest Beige Book report reveals a noticeable cooling in the U.S. job market. Employers are increasingly relying on attrition, hiring freezes, and reduced work hours instead of outright layoffs to manage staffing levels. This trend suggests a more cautious approach to employment across various sectors.
Consumer spending has also shown signs of softening, yet price pressures remain persistent, creating a complex economic landscape. Policymakers face mixed signals as they deliberate the potential for an interest-rate adjustment. Early reports also indicate artificial intelligence is beginning to affect employment.
These developing economic conditions, including the subtle impacts of AI on entry-level roles, provide crucial anecdotal data for the Fed. The insights from businesses across the country help inform the central bank's understanding of economic resilience and its future monetary policy decisions.
