The Beige Book, a report issued by the Federal Reserve in advance of it’s next policy setting meeting on March 16 noted several key factors in the economy. It states that consumer spending is up in many districts but also notes that February snowstorms also hampered activity in others.
Commercial real estate was reported as weak in many districts as well as construction. Loan demand is also weak, and lending standards remain tight throughout the country.
Overall, the Fed states that economic conditions are improving, though the details show many areas of the economy remain weak.
The full report can be found here.