Production: Energy: Production and Distribution of Electricity, Gas, Steam, and Air Conditioning: Total for Portugal

Monthly

PRTPREND401IXOBSAM • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

122.69

Year-over-Year Change

16.63%

Date Range

1/1/1968 - 11/1/2023

Summary

The 'Monthly' economic trend measures the performance of monthly retail sales, providing insights into consumer spending patterns 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 'Monthly' series tracks total retail sales, including purchases of goods and services at stores, restaurants, and other retail establishments. This data is a key indicator of consumer demand and can inform economic forecasting and policy decisions.

Methodology

The data is collected through surveys of retail establishments conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Historical Context

Retail sales figures are closely monitored by economists, policymakers, and financial markets to gauge economic growth and consumer confidence.

Key Facts

  • Retail sales account for approximately 40% of personal consumption expenditures in the U.S.
  • Monthly retail sales data is released by the U.S. Census Bureau around the 15th of each month.
  • Economists use retail sales as a leading indicator of overall economic activity and consumer confidence.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The 'Monthly' trend measures total retail sales, including purchases of goods and services at stores, restaurants, and other retail establishments across the United States.

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

A: Retail sales data is a key indicator of consumer demand and economic health, providing insights that are closely monitored by economists, policymakers, and financial markets.

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 used by economists and policymakers to gauge consumer confidence, forecast economic growth, and inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The monthly retail sales data is typically released around the 15th of each month, with a short lag period between the reference month and the publication date.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Monthly (PRTPREND401IXOBSAM), retrieved from FRED.