Fed Beige Book: Economic Growth Continued WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. economy continued its expansion over the past month, with labor market conditions improving and business lending on the rise, the Federal Reserve said on Wednesday. "Reports from the 12 Federal Reserve Districts generally paint a picture of continued economic growth from mid-October to mid-November, with a number of areas improving," the Fed said in its "beige book" report. The report, which gives an anecdotal look at economic conditions from the perspective of the Fed's regional banks, said hiring had improved in several districts and noted worker shortages in fields including accounting and construction. However, consumer spending was uneven, the Fed said, with many regions noting mixed, flat or slower sales. Some districts reported that demand for premium merchandise was noticeably stronger than for lower-priced lines, the Fed said, "with some contacts suggesting that lower-income households might have been more greatly affected by high energy prices." Manufacturing and service sector activity increased across the country and business lending strengthened, the Fed said. Consumer and mortgage lending activity was mixed across regions, it said. The Fed also said residential real estate activity remained high overall, but noted signs of cooling in a number of districts. The report was prepared by the Dallas Fed, with information collected before Nov. 22. Quelle "Fed Beige Book: Economic Growth Continued" : reuters.com Main page for "Fed Beige Book: Economic Growth Continued"