Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted
This dataset tracks percent change, seasonally adjusted over time.
Latest Value
-1.60
Year-over-Year Change
-223.08%
Date Range
10/1/2006 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The 'Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted' metric measures the monthly percentage change in retail and food services sales, a key indicator of consumer spending and economic activity.
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
This series tracks the month-over-month change in total retail and food services sales in the United States, adjusted for seasonal variations. It provides a timely gauge of consumer demand and the overall health of the economy.
Methodology
The data is collected through surveys of retail and food service businesses and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts closely monitor this metric to assess consumer confidence and make informed decisions about economic policies.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- Consumer spending has driven the majority of economic growth in recent years.
- Seasonally adjusted data helps identify underlying trends by removing predictable fluctuations.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The 'Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted' metric measures the monthly percentage change in retail and food services sales in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric provides a timely and important gauge of consumer spending and the overall health of the economy, making it a key indicator for policymakers and market analysts.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through surveys of retail and food service businesses and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts closely monitor this metric to assess consumer confidence and make informed decisions about economic policies, such as interest rates and fiscal measures.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical delay of around 2 weeks from the end of the reference period.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted (REV51112TPSA), retrieved from FRED.