Economy seen regaining muscle in second quarter

(Reuters) - U.S. economic growth likely regained steam in the second quarter as activity picked up broadly, which would bolster expectations for a stronger performance in the last six months of the year.

Harsh weather tests optimism over U.S. economy

(Reuters) - Unusually cold weather will take a bite out of U.S. economic growth this quarter, but a rebound seems likely on the horizon and expectations for stronger growth this year have not changed.

Oil prices rise on Fed's brighter US outlook

NEW YORK (AP) — Oil prices rose Wednesday after the Federal Reserve boosted its outlook for U.S. economic growth. Benchmark West Texas Intermediate crude added 57 cents to end at $104.12 per barrel in New York.

Fed officials signal more action may be needed

VANCOUVER, Wash/WOOSTER, Ohio (Reuters) - Federal Reserve officials on Tuesday signaled more help for the U.S. economy may be necessary despite recent data that suggested the recovery was picking up steam going into 2012.