Federal Budget Surplus or Deficit for the United States
Millions of Dollars, Monthly, Not Seasonally Adjusted
M1525EUSM144NNBR • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
788.30
Year-over-Year Change
-2.31%
Date Range
7/1/1945 - 12/1/1962
Summary
This economic indicator tracks the total dollar value of U.S. retail and food service sales on a monthly basis. It is a critical metric for gauging consumer spending, a key driver of economic growth.
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 Millions of Dollars, Monthly, Not Seasonally Adjusted metric represents the total dollar value of retail and food service sales in the United States. It is a key barometer of consumer demand and confidence, providing insights into the health of the broader economy.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses.
Historical Context
Retail sales data is closely monitored by policymakers, economists, and investors to assess the state of the U.S. economy and inform decision-making.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- The retail sales metric covers a broad range of goods, from automobiles to clothing.
- Strong retail sales growth is a sign of a healthy, expanding economy.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This indicator tracks the total dollar value of retail and food service sales in the United States on a monthly basis, providing insights into consumer spending patterns.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales data is a critical measure of consumer demand and a key driver of economic growth, making it highly relevant for policymakers, economists, and investors.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses across the country.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales data is closely monitored by policymakers and central banks to assess the overall health of the economy and inform decisions on monetary and fiscal policy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is published monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical release lag of around two weeks.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Millions of Dollars, Monthly, Not Seasonally Adjusted (M1525EUSM144NNBR), retrieved from FRED.