By Evelina M. Tainer, Chief Economist, Econoday
6/15/01

From the Fed's Beige Book to the various economic indicators such as retail sales and industrial production, the news was consistent. The economy is anemic and growth is sporadic. The manufacturing sector remains in a slump, but consumers are somewhat optimistic although retail sales aren't winning any prizes for strength. Inflation news isn't wonderful since energy price hikes remain an issue, but it isn't overly worrisome either since core inflation improved at the consumer and producer level.