Business Formations Within Four Quarters: Total for All NAICS in Rhode Island
Seasonally Adjusted
BFBF4QTOTALSARI • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
93.00
Year-over-Year Change
52.46%
Date Range
7/1/2004 - 12/1/2021
Summary
The Seasonally Adjusted Retail Sales index measures total monthly retail and food services sales adjusted for seasonal variations. It serves as a key indicator of consumer spending and economic activity.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The Seasonally Adjusted Retail Sales index is a widely-tracked economic indicator that provides a comprehensive assessment of consumer purchasing behavior. It adjusts raw sales data to account for predictable seasonal patterns, enabling more accurate analysis of underlying trends.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects retail sales data from a sample of businesses and applies statistical adjustments to remove seasonal fluctuations.
Historical Context
Analysts and policymakers closely monitor this index to gauge the strength of consumer demand and make informed decisions about economic policy.
Key Facts
- The index is published monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
- Retail sales account for nearly 30% of U.S. GDP.
- Seasonal adjustments help isolate underlying economic trends.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Seasonally Adjusted Retail Sales index measures total monthly retail and food services sales, with adjustments made to account for predictable seasonal variations.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This index is a critical indicator of consumer spending and a key driver of overall economic activity, making it highly relevant for analysts, policymakers, and businesses.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects retail sales data from a sample of businesses and applies statistical adjustments to remove seasonal fluctuations.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Analysts and policymakers closely monitor this index to gauge the strength of consumer demand and make informed decisions about economic policy, such as interest rates and fiscal measures.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Seasonally Adjusted Retail Sales index is published monthly, with a typical release delay of around two weeks from the end of the reference period.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Seasonally Adjusted Retail Sales (BFBF4QTOTALSARI), retrieved from FRED.