Fifth District Manufacturing Activity Slowed Somewhat in February

Fifth District Non-Manufacturing Activity Slowed in February

Understanding the Economy as Data Revisions Happen

From Incentive to Impact: What Extended Tax Credits Mean for Community Development Finance

"Overall, [federal government cuts] just created a lot of uncertainty in the region, which has made it difficult for firms to lean forward when it comes to hiring, investing — any type of activity that would lead towards greater growth."

Andy Bauer

Regional Executive

Speaking of the Economy Podcast, Regional Impacts of a Shrinking Federal Government

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Events Calendar

March 4, 2026

Investing in Rural America Webinar Series: Exploring Rural Trends and Why They Matter

2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Virtual

March 23, 2026

2026 National Community Investment Conference

Phoenix Convention Center
Phoenix, AZ

April 7, 2026

District Dialogues: How Is the Economy, Really?

8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Baltimore Branch
Baltimore, MD and Virtual

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Who We Are and What We Do

As a regional Reserve Bank, the Richmond Fed works to strengthen the economy and the Fifth District communities we serve by helping to carry out the day-to-day operations of the Fed. Here's how we do it:

Keep Cash and Payments Flowing

We help keep the country’s electronic payment system running and make sure banks have enough cash and coin to do business.

Represent the Regional Economy

We represent our region in national monetary policy discussions that aim to keep prices and employment stable.

Engage in Our Local Communities

We listen and learn from regional voices, and we provide economic education and community development resources in support of a stronger economy for all.

Contribute Specialized Knowledge

We share our unique expertise with the Federal Reserve System, like the work we do to understand and uplift the economies of rural areas and small towns.

By the Numbers

4.4%

was the national unemployment rate at the end of 2025, up 30 basis points from its year-ago reading, 60 basis points compared to its level two years ago, and 90 basis points compared to three years ago.

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