Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: Scientific Research and Development Services: Retained Earnings at Beginning of Quarter
QFRD119547USNO • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-306,786.00
Year-over-Year Change
70.72%
Date Range
10/1/2009 - 4/1/2025
Summary
This economic indicator tracks the retained earnings of U.S. corporations in the scientific research and development services sector at the beginning of each quarter. It provides critical insight into the financial health and investment capacity of innovative industries that drive technological advancement.
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 companies choose to reinvest rather than distribute as dividends, reflecting strategic financial planning in research-intensive sectors. Economists use this metric to assess corporate financial strategy, potential for future innovation, and overall sectoral economic performance.
Methodology
Data is collected through comprehensive quarterly financial surveys of corporations in the scientific research and development services sector, compiled and verified by federal economic reporting agencies.
Historical Context
This trend is used by policymakers, investors, and economic analysts to understand technology sector investment patterns, potential innovation pipelines, and broader economic research and development trends.
Key Facts
- Represents financial resources available for future R&D investments
- Indicates corporate strategic financial planning in technology sectors
- Provides insight into potential technological innovation capacity
FAQs
Q: What do retained earnings indicate about a company's financial health?
A: Retained earnings suggest a company's ability to fund future growth internally without external financing. Higher retained earnings typically indicate strong financial performance and strategic reinvestment potential.
Q: Why are retained earnings important in research and development sectors?
A: In R&D sectors, retained earnings represent critical capital for funding future innovation, technological research, and potential breakthrough developments.
Q: How frequently is this data updated?
A: This specific economic indicator is typically updated quarterly, providing a current snapshot of financial resources in scientific research and development services.
Q: How do investors use this retained earnings data?
A: Investors analyze retained earnings to assess a company's financial strategy, potential for future growth, and capacity for sustained innovation in technology sectors.
Q: What are the limitations of this economic indicator?
A: While valuable, this indicator provides a snapshot at a specific point in time and should be considered alongside other financial and economic metrics for comprehensive analysis.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: Scientific Research and Development Services: Retained Earnings at Beginning of Quarter [QFRD119547USNO], retrieved from FRED.
Last Checked: 8/1/2025