Advance Retail Sales: Building Materials, Garden Equipment and Supplies Dealers
Percent Change from Preceding Period, Not Seasonally Adjusted
MARTSMPCSM444USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-1.60
Year-over-Year Change
-260.00%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 7/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the monthly percent change in retail sales, excluding motor vehicles and parts, in the United States. It provides insight into consumer spending patterns and market demand.
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 metric tracks the month-over-month fluctuations in retail sales, excluding the volatile automotive sector. This indicator is closely monitored by economists and policymakers to gauge the health of the broader consumer economy.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Retail sales are a key input for assessing macroeconomic conditions and informing monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales excluding autos rose 0.2% in the latest month.
- Percent change in retail sales is a closely watched economic indicator.
- This metric provides insight into consumer demand and market conditions.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the monthly percent change in retail sales, excluding motor vehicles and parts, in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales are a key indicator of consumer spending and market demand, providing important insights for economists, policymakers, and market analysts.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales data is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other policymakers to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions that affect the broader economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is released monthly by the Census Bureau, with a typical release lag of around two weeks after the end of the reference period.
Related Trends
Retail Sales: Electronics and Appliance Stores
MRTSSM443USN
Retail Sales: Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
MRTSSM441USS
Advance Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores
RSGMS
Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores, Including Warehouse Clubs & Supercenters
SM4523USN
Advance Retail Sales: Auto and Other Motor Vehicle Dealers
RSAOMV
Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade
RSXFS
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period, Not Seasonally Adjusted (MARTSMPCSM444USN), retrieved from FRED.