Rest of the World; Current Taxes and Transfer Payments Received, Transactions
Quarterly
ROWCTPQ027S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
436,348.00
Year-over-Year Change
20.15%
Date Range
10/1/1946 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The Quarterly Retail Sales report tracks changes in U.S. retail and food service 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
The Quarterly Retail Sales series measures total sales at retail and food service establishments. It is a widely followed economic indicator that provides insight into the health of the consumer sector and broader economy.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of U.S. retail and food service businesses.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are closely monitored by policymakers, analysts, and investors to assess consumer demand and economic trends.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 30% of U.S. GDP.
- Sales typically peak during the holiday shopping season.
- E-commerce makes up over 13% of total retail sales.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Quarterly Retail Sales report tracks changes in total sales at U.S. retail and food service establishments, providing insight into consumer spending and economic activity.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales figures are a key indicator of the health of the consumer sector and broader economy, closely watched by policymakers, economists, and investors.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of U.S. retail and food service businesses.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales figures are closely monitored by policymakers to assess consumer demand and inform economic policies and interventions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Quarterly Retail Sales report is released approximately two months after the end of each quarter, with some potential for revisions to previous data.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Retail Sales (ROWCTPQ027S), retrieved from FRED.