Monthly
This dataset tracks monthly over time.
Latest Value
1.00
Year-over-Year Change
N/A%
Date Range
2/1/1995 - 9/1/2022
Summary
The Monthly Retail Sales series measures total monthly sales by retailers in the United States. It is a key economic indicator used to assess consumer spending and overall 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 Monthly Retail Sales report provides a comprehensive overview of retail trade activity, covering a wide range of merchandise categories from motor vehicles to clothing and electronics. The data is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and investors to gauge the strength of the consumer sector.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are a critical input for understanding economic growth, consumer confidence, and monetary policy.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 30% of total U.S. economic activity.
- E-commerce sales make up over 13% of total retail sales.
- Motor vehicle and parts dealers represent the largest retail trade segment.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Monthly Retail Sales series measures the total value of retail trade, including in-store and online sales, across a diverse range of merchandise categories.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales data is a key indicator of consumer demand and overall economic health, providing important insights for businesses, policymakers, and investors.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales figures are closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other policymakers to assess the strength of consumer spending and make informed decisions about monetary policy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Monthly Retail Sales data is released approximately two weeks after the end of each month, with some minor revisions possible in subsequent releases.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Monthly Retail Sales (CHLREC), retrieved from FRED.