Percent Change
This dataset tracks percent change over time.
Latest Value
-1.00
Year-over-Year Change
-132.26%
Date Range
4/1/2009 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The Percent Change trend measures the quarter-over-quarter percent change in U.S. expenditures on goods and services. This key economic indicator offers insights into consumer spending and broader 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 Percent Change series tracks the percent change in real personal consumption expenditures, a broad measure of household spending that accounts for a large portion of U.S. GDP. Economists closely monitor this trend to gauge the strength of consumer demand and assess the overall health of the economy.
Methodology
The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis based on surveys of consumer transactions.
Historical Context
Policymakers at the Federal Reserve and other institutions use this metric to inform decisions on monetary policy and economic stimulus.
Key Facts
- Percent Change is reported quarterly.
- Consumer spending accounts for over two-thirds of U.S. GDP.
- The trend reached a record low of -6.9% in Q2 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Percent Change trend measures the quarter-over-quarter percent change in real personal consumption expenditures, a broad gauge of household spending in the U.S. economy.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Consumer spending is a critical driver of economic growth, so the Percent Change trend provides important insights into the strength of consumer demand and the overall health of the U.S. economy.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis collects data on consumer transactions and calculates the quarter-over-quarter percent change in real personal consumption expenditures.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers at the Federal Reserve and other institutions closely monitor the Percent Change trend to inform decisions on monetary policy and economic stimulus measures.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Percent Change data is released quarterly by the Bureau of Economic Analysis, with a typical delay of 1-2 months after the end of each quarter.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change (EXP6244ALLEST157QNSA), retrieved from FRED.