Percent Change from Preceding Period
This dataset tracks percent change from preceding period over time.
Latest Value
-7.90
Year-over-Year Change
46.30%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The 'Percent Change from Preceding Period' trend measures the monthly percent change in retail sales, excluding motor vehicles and parts. This key economic indicator provides insights into consumer spending patterns and overall economic health.
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' metric tracks the month-over-month change in total retail sales, excluding the volatile automotive sector. Economists and policymakers closely monitor this data to gauge the strength of consumer demand and broader economic conditions.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects and calculates this statistic based on monthly surveys of retail and food service establishments.
Historical Context
Retail sales data is a leading indicator used by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- This metric excludes volatile auto sales to provide a cleaner read on broader consumer trends.
- The percent change data is seasonally adjusted to control for typical monthly variations.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The 'Percent Change from Preceding Period' metric tracks the monthly percent change in total retail sales, excluding motor vehicles and parts.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales data is a key indicator of consumer spending and overall economic health, providing insights that inform policy decisions and market analysis.
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 establishments and calculates the seasonally adjusted percent change.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The Federal Reserve and other institutions closely monitor retail sales data to assess consumer demand and make informed monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is released monthly by the Census Bureau, with a typical 2-week delay from the end of the reference period.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period (MRTSMPCSM44814USN), retrieved from FRED.