Quarterly
LREMTTFEO1Q156N • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
48.90
Year-over-Year Change
2.73%
Date Range
1/1/2005 - 4/1/2017
Summary
The Quarterly Retail Trade Survey (QRTS) measures quarterly total sales for retail trade businesses in the United States. This important economic indicator provides insights into consumer demand and spending patterns.
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 QRTS collects data on retail sales and inventories from a sample of U.S. retail businesses, producing a quarterly report on the state of the retail sector. Economists and policymakers use this data to track economic growth, consumer confidence, and the overall health of the national economy.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau conducts the QRTS by surveying a representative sample of retail establishments.
Historical Context
Retail sales data is a key input for monetary and fiscal policy decisions made by the Federal Reserve and government.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for about 30% of total US consumer spending.
- Retail trade makes up approximately 6% of US gross domestic product (GDP).
- The QRTS has been conducted quarterly since 1992.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Quarterly Retail Trade Survey (QRTS) measures total quarterly sales for the retail trade sector in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales data is a key indicator of consumer demand and economic health, making the QRTS an important input for economic analysis and policy decisions.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau conducts the QRTS by surveying a representative sample of retail establishments across the country.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales data from the QRTS is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and government policymakers to inform monetary and fiscal policies.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The QRTS is published quarterly, with a lag of approximately one month after the end of the reference quarter.
Related Trends
Infra-Annual Labor Statistics: Employment Female: From 25 to 54 Years for OECD
OECDLFEM25FESTSAQ
Infra-Annual Labor Statistics: Monthly Unemployment Female: 15 Years or over for OECD
OECDLFHUTTFESTSAM
Infra-Annual Labor Statistics: Employment Rate Male: 15 Years or over for OECD
OECDLREMTTMASTSAQ
Infra-Annual Labor Statistics: Employment: Economic Activity: Services: Total for OECD
OECDLFEASETTSTQ
Infra-Annual Labor Statistics: Employment Female: From 15 to 24 Years for OECD
OECDLFEM24FEGPQ
Infra-Annual Labor Statistics: Monthly Unemployment Rate Male: 15 Years or over for OECD
OECDLRHUTTMASTQ
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Retail Trade Survey (LREMTTFEO1Q156N), retrieved from FRED.