Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted

This dataset tracks percent change from preceding period, seasonally adjusted over time.

Latest Value

-0.60

Year-over-Year Change

-160.00%

Date Range

2/1/1992 - 7/1/2025

Summary

This economic trend measures the monthly percent change in retail and food services sales, adjusted for seasonal variations. It provides important insights into consumer spending and the overall health of the U.S. 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

The 'Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted' series tracks the month-over-month change in retail and food services sales, a key indicator of consumer demand and economic activity. This metric is widely used by economists, policymakers, and market analysts to assess the strength of the U.S. consumer sector.

Methodology

The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food services businesses by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Historical Context

This economic indicator helps inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions aimed at promoting stable economic growth.

Key Facts

  • Retail and food services sales account for nearly 40% of total personal consumption expenditures.
  • The percent change series is adjusted for seasonal variation to provide a clearer signal of underlying trends.
  • This indicator is released monthly, providing timely data on the strength of consumer demand.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the monthly percent change in retail and food services sales, seasonally adjusted. It provides insights into consumer spending and the overall health of the U.S. economy.

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

A: This indicator is widely used by economists, policymakers, and market analysts to assess the strength of consumer demand and make informed decisions about monetary and fiscal policy.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food services businesses by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: This economic indicator helps inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions aimed at promoting stable economic growth and supporting the U.S. consumer sector.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released monthly, providing timely information on the state of consumer spending. There are no significant update delays or limitations associated with this series.

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Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted (MARTSMPCSM443USS), retrieved from FRED.