Federal Surplus or Deficit [-]
Monthly
MTSDS133FMS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
27,010.02
Year-over-Year Change
-140.95%
Date Range
10/1/1980 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Monthly Retail Trade Survey (MRTS) measures monthly sales for retail and food service establishments in the United States. It provides key insights into consumer spending and economic activity.
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 MRTS is a principal federal economic indicator that tracks the sales performance of the retail and food services sectors. The data is used by policymakers, analysts, and businesses to monitor consumer demand and the overall health of the economy.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects data through a monthly survey of a sample of retail and food service businesses.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are closely watched by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 30% of total U.S. consumer spending.
- Monthly retail sales have exceeded $600 billion since 2021.
- E-commerce sales made up over 13% of total retail sales in 2022.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Monthly Retail Trade Survey measures monthly sales for retail and food service establishments in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales data provides key insights into consumer spending and the overall health of the economy, making it a closely watched economic indicator.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects the data through a monthly survey of a sample of retail and food service businesses.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales figures are closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The MRTS data is released on a monthly basis, with a typical release lag of around two weeks after the end of the reference month.
Related Trends
Market Value of Gross Federal Debt
MVGFD027MNFRBDAL
Federal Debt Held by Federal Reserve Banks
FDHBFRBN
Federal Debt Held by Private Investors as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
HBPIGDQ188S
Means of Financing: Reduction of Operating Cash, Increase (-)
MTSMFROC133FMS
Federal Net Outlays
FYONET
Federal Debt: Total Public Debt
GFDEBTN
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Monthly Retail Trade Survey (MTSDS133FMS), retrieved from FRED.