Percent Change
This dataset tracks percent change over time.
Latest Value
-10.70
Year-over-Year Change
-45.96%
Date Range
4/1/2010 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The Percent Change trend measures the quarterly percentage change in retail sales, providing insights into 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 economic indicator tracks the change in total retail sales over the previous quarter, offering a timely gauge of consumer demand and confidence. Analysts and policymakers use this metric to assess the health of the broader economy.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects and calculates this series based on surveys of retail establishments.
Historical Context
Retail sales are a key driver of U.S. economic growth, so this trend is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other institutions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for about 40% of total U.S. consumer spending.
- The percent change trend is reported quarterly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
- Rapid changes in retail sales often signal shifts in the broader economy.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Percent Change trend measures the quarterly percentage change in total U.S. retail sales, providing insights into consumer spending and economic activity.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales are a key driver of economic growth, so this metric is closely watched by analysts, investors, and policymakers to assess the health of the broader economy.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects and calculates this series based on surveys of retail establishments throughout the country.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The Federal Reserve and other institutions monitor this trend closely to gauge consumer demand and make informed decisions about monetary policy and economic interventions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: This series is reported on a quarterly basis, with a lag of approximately one month between the end of the quarter and the release of the data.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change (REV6114ALLEST157QNSA), retrieved from FRED.