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