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Better late than never when it comes to business good news. For a year that felt like it was slipping backwards into another recession, the data coming from the Federal Reserve shows a reason for optimism. Major industries like the auto and travel sectors experienced significant growth at the end of 2011 and brought needed revenues to these areas. However, that was just the start of the good news. Manufacturing picked up steam as well and consumers were only too happy to purchase those new goods. The last quarter of 2011 had the Federal Reserve humming a merry tune as 12 of its banking districts showed signs of positive growth.

Still a Few Hurdles

The good news has some wondering if the recovery is gaining steam. Prior episodes of high gas prices, food prices, and supply side interruptions due to natural disasters had some experts worrying whether the recovery had been derailed. That does not appear to be the case as new numbers show positive growth in many different areas at once. Even the job market is showing signs of life.

Housing the Big Question

One area of the economy continues to lag and that is housing. Rentals are increasing and there are fewer home buyers in the market. The glut of foreclosed homes are starting to decline, but competition on prices has dragged equity down for many homeowners. When this part of the economy turns around, everyone is bound to breathe a sigh of relief.

Possible Interventions

There are still a number of items on Congress‘ list to help spur more economic good news. Unemployment extensions can help alleviate mortgage defaults for those that are still seeking employment. They can extend Social Security tax cuts that are set to expire. Even without further interventions, the economy showed a healthy 3 percent growth rate for the last quarter of 2011. With increasing consumer demand, businesses are starting to hire and that alone will help rev the economic engine back to a roar.