Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: All Other Information: Retained Earnings

QFR322519USNO • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

207,238.00

Year-over-Year Change

-15.85%

Date Range

10/1/2009 - 1/1/2025

Summary

Tracks cumulative corporate profits retained by U.S. companies after dividend distributions. Provides critical insight into corporate financial strategy and reinvestment potential.

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

Retained earnings represent accumulated net income that corporations choose to reinvest rather than distribute to shareholders. This metric reflects corporate financial health and growth strategy.

Methodology

Calculated quarterly by aggregating net income minus dividend payments across U.S. corporations.

Historical Context

Used by investors and analysts to assess corporate financial sustainability and reinvestment capabilities.

Key Facts

  • Indicates corporate reinvestment potential
  • Reflects long-term financial planning
  • Critical for understanding corporate growth strategies

FAQs

Q: What do retained earnings indicate about a company's financial health?

A: Retained earnings show a company's ability to generate profit and reinvest in future growth without external financing.

Q: How do retained earnings differ from net income?

A: Retained earnings accumulate over time, while net income represents profits for a specific accounting period.

Q: Why do companies retain earnings?

A: Companies retain earnings to fund expansion, research, debt reduction, or maintain financial stability.

Q: How often are retained earnings reported?

A: Typically reported quarterly in financial statements and corporate financial reports.

Q: Can retained earnings be negative?

A: Yes, negative retained earnings indicate cumulative losses exceeding previous profits.

Related News

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: All Other Information: Retained Earnings (QFR322519USNO), retrieved from FRED.