Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: Chemicals: Retained Earnings at Beginning of Quarter

QFRD119CHEUSNO • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

745,205.00

Year-over-Year Change

16.59%

Date Range

10/1/2000 - 1/1/2025

Summary

This economic indicator tracks the retained earnings of U.S. chemical corporations at the beginning of each quarter, providing insight into the financial health and reinvestment capacity of the sector. Retained earnings represent the cumulative net income that companies choose to reinvest rather than distribute as dividends, serving as a key metric of corporate financial strategy.

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

The trend reflects the accumulated profits that chemical companies have preserved for future investments, expansion, or financial stability. Economists and investors analyze this metric to understand the sector's financial resilience, growth potential, and strategic decision-making regarding capital allocation.

Methodology

Data is collected through quarterly financial reports submitted by chemical corporations, aggregated and standardized by federal economic reporting agencies.

Historical Context

This indicator is used in macroeconomic analysis to assess industrial sector performance, investment trends, and potential economic growth in the chemical manufacturing industry.

Key Facts

  • Represents accumulated profits in the U.S. chemical corporate sector
  • Indicates potential for future investment and corporate growth
  • Provides insights into financial strategy of chemical manufacturers

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 without relying on external financing. Higher retained earnings typically signal financial strength and strategic long-term planning.

Q: How do retained earnings differ from net income?

A: Net income is the profit for a specific period, while retained earnings accumulate over time, representing the total profits kept by the company after dividend distributions.

Q: How frequently is this data updated?

A: The Quarterly Financial Report is typically updated on a quarterly basis, providing a current snapshot of the chemical industry's financial performance.

Q: Why are retained earnings important for investors?

A: Investors use retained earnings to assess a company's financial strategy, growth potential, and ability to fund future expansion without additional external capital.

Q: What limitations exist in interpreting this data?

A: While informative, retained earnings should be analyzed alongside other financial metrics to provide a comprehensive view of corporate financial performance.

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Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: Chemicals: Retained Earnings at Beginning of Quarter [QFRD119CHEUSNO], retrieved from FRED.

Last Checked: 8/1/2025