Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted
This dataset tracks percent change, seasonally adjusted over time.
Latest Value
3.10
Year-over-Year Change
106.67%
Date Range
4/1/2009 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The 'Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted' series measures the month-over-month percentage change in total manufacturing and trade sales, a key indicator of consumer and business demand.
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 trend provides insights into the health of the retail sector and consumer spending, which are important drivers of overall economic growth. Analysts and policymakers monitor these sales figures to assess the current state and future trajectory of the economy.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and wholesale businesses.
Historical Context
Retail sales trends are closely watched by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 30% of total U.S. economic activity.
- The retail sector employs over 15 million people in the United States.
- Consumer spending drives approximately 70% of U.S. GDP.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The 'Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted' series tracks the month-over-month percentage change in total manufacturing and trade sales, which serves as a proxy for consumer and business demand.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales figures are a key indicator of the overall health of the economy, as consumer spending accounts for a large portion of economic activity. Monitoring this trend helps analysts and policymakers assess current economic conditions and make informed decisions.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and wholesale businesses conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The Federal Reserve and other policymakers closely monitor retail sales trends to help inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions, as changes in consumer spending can have significant implications for the broader economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is typically released by the Census Bureau around the middle of each month, with a one-month lag. While the data provides a timely snapshot of consumer demand, it may not fully capture more recent economic developments.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted (REV6214TPSA), retrieved from FRED.