Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted
This dataset tracks percent change, seasonally adjusted over time.
Latest Value
7.70
Year-over-Year Change
-166.96%
Date Range
4/1/2009 - 1/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the percent change in retail sales, adjusted for seasonal variations. It provides insight into consumer spending patterns, a key indicator of economic health.
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 Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted trend tracks the monthly percent change in total U.S. retail and food services sales. This metric is widely used by economists and policymakers to gauge consumer demand and monitor the overall state of the economy.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service firms by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are closely watched by the Federal Reserve and other institutions for their implications on inflation, interest rates, and economic policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- Consumer spending has historically driven over two-thirds of GDP growth.
- Percent change in retail sales is a leading indicator of overall economic performance.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted trend tracks the monthly percent change in total U.S. retail and food services sales.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales figures are a key indicator of consumer demand and overall economic health, making this trend widely monitored by economists, policymakers, and market analysts.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service firms by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales data is closely watched by the Federal Reserve and other institutions for its implications on inflation, interest rates, and broader economic policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is published monthly by the Census Bureau, with a typical 2-week delay from the end of the reference period.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted (REV7111APSA), retrieved from FRED.