Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: Wholesale Trade, Durable Goods: Retained Earnings at Beginning of Quarter
QFRD119421USNO • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
298,786.00
Year-over-Year Change
34.65%
Date Range
10/1/2000 - 4/1/2025
Summary
This economic indicator tracks retained earnings for wholesale trade and durable goods corporations at the start of each quarter. It provides critical insight into corporate financial health and potential 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 cumulative net income that corporations choose to reinvest rather than distribute as dividends. Economists analyze this metric to understand corporate financial strategy, investment potential, and overall economic resilience.
Methodology
Data is collected through comprehensive quarterly financial surveys of U.S. corporations in the wholesale trade and durable goods sectors.
Historical Context
Policymakers and investors use this trend to assess corporate financial strength, potential capital expenditures, and broader economic investment patterns.
Key Facts
- Represents accumulated profits not distributed as dividends
- Indicates potential for corporate reinvestment and expansion
- Provides insight into corporate financial strategy and economic health
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 financial strength and strategic investment potential.
Q: How do retained earnings differ in wholesale trade versus other sectors?
A: Wholesale trade retained earnings can reflect supply chain dynamics, inventory management, and broader economic trade conditions more directly than some other sectors.
Q: How frequently is this data updated?
A: This specific economic indicator is typically updated on a quarterly basis, providing a consistent snapshot of corporate financial performance.
Q: Why do economists care about retained earnings?
A: Retained earnings are a key indicator of corporate financial strategy, potential future investments, and overall economic momentum.
Q: What limitations exist in this economic metric?
A: The data represents a specific sector and time period, so it should be analyzed alongside other economic indicators for comprehensive insights.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: Wholesale Trade, Durable Goods: Retained Earnings at Beginning of Quarter [QFRD119421USNO], retrieved from FRED.
Last Checked: 8/1/2025