Southwest Economy
Ranchers herd it all as fewer cattle pressure beef prices; screwworm lurks
Texas cattle ranchers typically benefit from an increase in beef prices, but more recently, the reemergence of the flesh-eating New World screwworm parasite threatens the beef industry.
May 20, 2026
Economic Indicators
Southern New Mexico Economic Indicators
Employment in Las Cruces grew moderately from March 2025 to March 2026. More recently, employment grew at a milder pace from December 2025 through March 2026, and wages declined slightly over the same time period. The unemployment rate increased over the three months ending in February. Copper prices increased to new highs in April, and potash prices declined slightly over the three months ending in March.
May 11, 2026
Southwest Economy
Eleventh Federal Reserve District banks maintain growth, profitability heading into 2026
Eleventh District banks, benefitting from steady profits, strong credit conditions and improving bank capital levels, are well positioned to compete in a changing regulatory environment.
May 08, 2026
Economic Indicators
Energy Indicators
Global energy markets faced increased volatility in early 2026 following the geopolitical shock of the Iran conflict. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, as well as attacks on related infrastructure in the region, have not only pushed crude prices up sharply but widened the spread between fuel costs and crude prices. The result has been higher prices at the pump.
May 01, 2026
Southwest Economy
Region’s commercial space exploration industry has lofty goals for growth, discovery
Texas' booming private space industry is making access to space broader and cheaper than ever before.
April 01, 2026
Economic Surveys
Agricultural Survey
Bankers responding to the first-quarter survey reported slightly worsening conditions across most of the Eleventh District.
March 23, 2026
Fry object double tagged
Double-tag fry object
February 25, 2026
Economic Indicators
Energy Indicators
Global oil inventories are expected to rise over the next year as supply growth continues outpacing consumption. Chinese stockpiling has provided some price support. U.S. crude production is projected to remain stable supported by continued efficiency gains.
February 12, 2026
Southern New Mexico Economic Indicators
Employment in Las Cruces grew solidly in 2025. The unemployment rate ticked up in December but remains low compared with pre-pandemic levels.
February 11, 2026
Economic surveys
Agricultural Survey
Bankers responding to the fourth-quarter survey reported stable conditions in the agricultural industry in most regions of the Eleventh District.
December 22, 2025