What it is
The Beige Book provides anecdotal information on economic activity collected by each of the Federal Reserve's 12 district banks from various contacts, including businesses, economists, and community organizations. It covers a range of sectors such as manufacturing, retail, services, labor markets, and real estate. This report offers a grassroots perspective on the economy, detailing trends and conditions that complement quantitative data.
This report is released two weeks before each Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting and is a key input for policymakers when assessing the national economic landscape and making decisions on monetary policy. Financial market participants also analyze the Beige Book for insights into regional economic health, inflation pressures, and labor market dynamics, often looking for clues about the Fed's potential future actions or shifts in economic momentum.
Why it matters
The Beige Book offers a narrative view of the economy, helping investors understand regional trends and anticipate how the Federal Reserve might adjust monetary policy.
Reviewed under editorial standardsUpdated September 26, 2026Not investment advice