Percent Change, Quarterly

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

Latest Value

1.06

Year-over-Year Change

-78.36%

Date Range

4/1/1985 - 7/1/2011

Summary

The 'Percent Change, Quarterly' trend measures the quarter-over-quarter percent change in unit labor costs for the U.S. manufacturing sector. This metric is a key indicator of inflationary pressures and productivity in the economy.

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

Unit labor costs represent the average cost of labor per unit of output, capturing both wage levels and labor productivity. The quarterly percent change in this metric is closely monitored by economists and policymakers to assess manufacturing sector health and potential inflation risks.

Methodology

The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics based on measures of employee compensation and manufacturing output.

Historical Context

Trends in unit labor costs inform monetary policy decisions by the Federal Reserve and provide insight into the underlying drivers of consumer price inflation.

Key Facts

  • Unit labor costs increased 2.3% in Q4 2022 compared to Q3 2022.
  • Labor productivity in the U.S. manufacturing sector declined 3.0% in Q4 2022.
  • Rapid growth in unit labor costs can signal a need for tighter monetary policy.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The 'Percent Change, Quarterly' trend measures the quarter-over-quarter percent change in unit labor costs for the U.S. manufacturing sector.

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

A: Unit labor cost trends are a key indicator of manufacturing sector productivity and inflationary pressures, informing economic and monetary policy decisions.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics based on measures of employee compensation and manufacturing output.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Trends in unit labor costs provide insight into underlying drivers of consumer price inflation and inform monetary policy decisions by the Federal Reserve.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released quarterly with a lag of approximately one month.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change, Quarterly (LUXULCMANQPNMEI), retrieved from FRED.