Quarterly

BPDBIN01BRQ637N • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

13,809,000,000.00

Year-over-Year Change

-13.35%

Date Range

1/1/1979 - 10/1/2014

Summary

The Quarterly Business Inventory-to-Sales Ratio measures the relationship between business inventories and sales, providing insights into economic conditions and supply-demand dynamics.

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 Quarterly Business Inventory-to-Sales Ratio is a key economic indicator that tracks the ratio of total business inventories to total business sales. It offers insights into the balance between supply and demand, inventory management strategies, and potential production and sales trends.

Methodology

The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau through surveys of businesses across various sectors.

Historical Context

Economists and policymakers closely monitor this ratio to assess inventory levels, business confidence, and potential inflationary or recessionary pressures.

Key Facts

  • The ratio reached a high of 1.47 in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • A higher ratio indicates slower sales relative to inventory levels.
  • The ratio is a leading indicator of economic activity and business cycle trends.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Quarterly Business Inventory-to-Sales Ratio measures the relationship between total business inventories and total business sales, providing insights into supply-demand dynamics and inventory management strategies.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This ratio is a key indicator of economic conditions, as it helps analysts and policymakers assess inventory levels, business confidence, and potential inflationary or recessionary pressures.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau through surveys of businesses across various sectors.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Economists and policymakers closely monitor the Quarterly Business Inventory-to-Sales Ratio to evaluate supply chain dynamics, production trends, and potential risks to economic growth.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released quarterly, with a delay of approximately one month after the end of the reference period. The ratio may be subject to revisions as more complete data becomes available.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Business Inventory-to-Sales Ratio (BPDBIN01BRQ637N), retrieved from FRED.