Advance Retail Sales: Furniture and Home Furnishings Stores
Percent Change from Preceding Period, Not Seasonally Adjusted
MARTSMPCSM442USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
6.80
Year-over-Year Change
30.77%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 7/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the monthly percent change in retail sales, excluding motor vehicle and parts dealers, from the previous period. It provides insight into the health and direction of 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 'Percent Change from Preceding Period, Not Seasonally Adjusted' retail sales metric tracks changes in the total value of retail sales transactions, excluding auto-related purchases. This indicator offers a timely snapshot of consumer demand and is closely watched by economists and policymakers to assess the broader economic landscape.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are a leading indicator used to monitor consumer confidence and spending patterns, which have significant implications for monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales, excluding autos, make up about 70% of total consumer spending in the U.S.
- This metric is released monthly, providing timely data on the health of the consumer sector.
- Positive growth in retail sales, adjusted for inflation, generally signals an expanding economy.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the monthly percent change in retail sales, excluding motor vehicle and parts dealers, from the previous period.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales, excluding autos, are a key indicator of consumer spending and demand, which are crucial drivers of economic growth. This metric is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and market analysts.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales figures are a leading indicator used to monitor consumer confidence and spending patterns, which have significant implications for monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released monthly, providing timely information on the health of the consumer sector. However, the 'not seasonally adjusted' nature of the metric may require additional analysis to account for typical seasonal variations.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period, Not Seasonally Adjusted (MARTSMPCSM442USN), retrieved from FRED.