Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: All Information: Retained Earnings
QFR322INFUSNO • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
752,427.00
Year-over-Year Change
26.22%
Date Range
10/1/2009 - 1/1/2025
Summary
This economic indicator tracks the cumulative net earnings retained by U.S. corporations after dividend distributions. It provides critical insight into corporate financial health and reinvestment strategies.
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 the portion of net income that corporations choose to reinvest in their business rather than distribute to shareholders. Economists analyze this metric to understand corporate investment patterns, financial stability, and potential future growth strategies.
Methodology
The data is collected through comprehensive quarterly financial reports submitted by corporations to regulatory agencies, aggregated and analyzed by the Federal Reserve.
Historical Context
This trend is used by policymakers, investors, and economic analysts to assess corporate financial performance and potential macroeconomic investment trends.
Key Facts
- Represents accumulated profits not distributed as dividends
- Indicates potential for corporate reinvestment and growth
- Reflects overall corporate financial strategy and performance
FAQs
Q: What do retained earnings indicate about a company's financial health?
A: Retained earnings suggest a company's ability to generate profit and reinvest in its own growth. Higher retained earnings often signal strong financial performance and strategic investment potential.
Q: How do retained earnings impact stock valuation?
A: Increasing retained earnings can positively influence stock prices by demonstrating a company's capacity for internal growth and financial stability.
Q: How frequently is this data updated?
A: The Quarterly Financial Report is typically updated on a quarterly basis, providing current insights into corporate financial trends.
Q: Why do corporations retain earnings?
A: Corporations retain earnings to fund research and development, expand operations, pay down debt, or create financial reserves for future opportunities.
Q: What are the limitations of analyzing retained earnings?
A: While informative, retained earnings should be analyzed alongside other financial metrics to provide a comprehensive view of corporate performance.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: All Information: Retained Earnings [QFR322INFUSNO], retrieved from FRED.
Last Checked: 8/1/2025