Dhaka, April 15 -- The US economy picked up speed going into the spring on the back of growing confidence among consumers, the Federal Reserve said on Wednesday, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell said it is on track for stronger growth and hiring in the coming months.

Economic activity between late February and early April was buoyed by increased COVID-19 vaccinations and strong fiscal support, and the labor market also improved as more people returned to work, the US central bank said in its latest "Beige Book," a collection of anecdotes about the economy from its 12 regional districts.

The pace of hiring rose the most in the manufacturing, construction, and leisure and hospitality sectors, reports Reuters.

"Reports on tourism were more upb...