Fed survey shows more broad-based hiring

Washington

A FEDERAL Reserve survey has showed that businesses across the country are hiring workers in industries from aerospace to finance, adding to evidence of labour market strength ahead of key jobs data on Friday.

"Employment gains were widespread," the central bank said on Wednesday in its Beige Book, which is based on reports gathered on or before Nov 24 by regional Fed banks. Consumer spending improved as petrol prices plunged, and in a number of districts, business contacts "remained optimistic about the outlook", according to the report.