Monthly
This dataset tracks monthly over time.
Latest Value
1.00
Year-over-Year Change
0.00%
Date Range
2/1/1995 - 9/1/2022
Summary
The 'Monthly' series tracks the total value of national retail and food services sales, providing a comprehensive measure of consumer spending in the United States.
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' series is a key economic indicator that reflects the overall health of the U.S. consumer economy. It is widely used by economists, policymakers, and market analysts to gauge consumer confidence and make informed decisions about economic policy and investment strategies.
Methodology
The data is collected through surveys of retail and food service establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
This metric is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other government agencies to assess the strength of consumer demand and guide monetary and fiscal policy.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for about 30% of total consumer spending in the U.S.
- The monthly series has been published since 1992 by the U.S. Census Bureau.
- Consumer spending makes up approximately 70% of the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP).
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The 'Monthly' series tracks the total value of retail and food services sales in the United States, providing a comprehensive measure of consumer spending.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric is a key indicator of the health of the consumer economy and is closely monitored by policymakers, economists, and market analysts to assess consumer confidence and guide economic decision-making.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through surveys of retail and food service establishments conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The 'Monthly' series is closely watched by the Federal Reserve and other government agencies to evaluate the strength of consumer demand and inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The 'Monthly' series is published with a slight delay, typically within a few weeks after the end of each reporting period.
Related News
U.S. Stock Futures Stagnant Despite Positive Jobless Claims and GDP
Why US Stock Futures Remain Stagnant Despite Positive Economic Indicators The current investment landscape is puzzling for many as US stock futures struggle to show a definite trend despite favorable economic signals. These signals, such as jobless claims and Q2 GDP figures, suggest a healthy economy. Given the roles of the stock market and the Federal Reserve's decisions on rate hikes, it is surprising to witness this stagnation. Inflation trends and the Fed's signals about future policies pla
U.S. Home Sales Decline In August Due To High Prices
August 2023 U.S. Home Sales Decline Amid Rising Mortgage Rates and High Prices In August 2023, U.S. home sales experienced a notable decline, highlighting a distressing trend in the housing market. Homeownership is more costly these days. High home prices and soaring 30 year mortgage rates, combined with limited housing inventory, pose significant challenges for potential buyers and cast a shadow on economic recovery efforts. Many potential homebuyers find themselves increasingly priced out of
U.S. jobless claims decline to lowest level since mid-July
U.S. Jobless Claims Drop: A Positive Sign for Economic Growth The U.S. economy is signaling a positive turn as the initial jobless claims have dropped to their lowest level since mid-July, suggesting a more resilient labor market. This decline in jobless claims is not just a number; it reflects crucial dynamics in the U.S. economy and employment landscape. As people file fewer claims for unemployment benefits, it suggests a strengthening employment market and a recovering economy. Also, the cur
U.S. Trade Deficit Decreases As Businesses Anticipate Tariff Hikes
U.S. Trade Deficit Reaches Two-Year Low Amid Anticipated Tariff Hikes The recent announcement that the U.S. trade deficit has reached a two-year low signals significant developments for the national economy. This change may, in part, be influenced by the anticipation of tariff hikes, which are affecting trade patterns. As this event unfolds, it has implications for the U.S. GDP, underscoring the importance of reducing the trade deficit. Trade tensions have long shaped the global economic landsc
U.S. Treasury Yields Increase Amid Strong Economic Growth and Inflation Concerns
Treasury Yields Surge Amid Economic Growth and Inflation Concerns Treasury yields are surging as investors closely monitor the evolving U.S. economic landscape. Recent data 10-year Treasury yield. With economic growth on one side and inflation data on the other, it's essential to unpack these complex dynamics. By analyzing these factors, we gain insights into the Federal Reserve's role in shaping monetary policy and the consequential market implications. The Federal Reserve's policies, market v
U.S. Stock Indices Rebound After Tech Stocks' Recent Decline
US Stock Indices Rebound: Understanding the Market Recovery The recent surge in the US stock market marks a significant upturn, with key indices such as the Nasdaq and S&P 500 leading this recovery. The primary metric underpinning these shifts is the civilian employment-to-population ratio, reflecting positive economic momentum. This boost in indices can be linked to a complex interplay of factors, including recent economic data, renewed market optimism, and evolving investor behavior, casting
Related Trends
Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: All Items in U.S. City Average
CPIAUCNS
Capacity Utilization: Total Index
TCU
Commercial and Industrial Loans, All Commercial Banks
TOTCI
Share of Foreign Born in Home Owners Loan Corporation (HOLC) Neighborhood A
RLMSHFBHOLCNA
Home Ownership Rate in Home Owners Loan Corporation (HOLC) Neighborhood C
RLMSHHORHOLCNC
Share of Foreign Born in Home Owners Loan Corporation (HOLC) Neighborhood C
RLMSHFBHOLCNC
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Monthly (ESTRECM), retrieved from FRED.