Ratio of Inventories to Sales, Manufacturing and Trade, Total for United States

M0516BUSM163SNBR • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

1.54

Year-over-Year Change

0.00%

Date Range

1/1/1948 - 8/1/1969

Summary

The Ratio of Inventories to Sales for Manufacturing and Trade in the United States is an important economic indicator that measures the relationship between inventory levels and sales, providing insights into business operations and economic conditions.

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

This ratio represents the total value of inventories held by manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers divided by the total value of sales. It is used to assess supply chain efficiency, inventory management, and demand trends within the broader economy.

Methodology

The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau based on monthly surveys of businesses.

Historical Context

Policymakers and analysts monitor this ratio to gauge economic performance and make informed decisions.

Key Facts

  • The ratio can signal changes in consumer demand and business confidence.
  • A lower ratio may indicate that businesses are operating with lean inventories.
  • A higher ratio may suggest excess inventory and potential production cutbacks.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Ratio of Inventories to Sales for Manufacturing and Trade measures the relationship between inventory levels and sales across the U.S. economy.

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

A: This ratio provides insights into supply chain efficiency, inventory management, and demand trends, which are important for understanding economic conditions and making informed business and policy decisions.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau based on monthly surveys of manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and analysts monitor this ratio to gauge economic performance and make informed decisions about monetary policy, production, and inventory management.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released monthly, but there may be some delays in reporting due to the survey-based nature of the data collection.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Ratio of Inventories to Sales, Manufacturing and Trade, Total for United States (M0516BUSM163SNBR), retrieved from FRED.