Advance Retail Sales: Department Stores
Not Seasonally Adjusted
RSDSELDN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
9,906.00
Year-over-Year Change
-5.52%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 3/1/2025
Summary
The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' series measures changes in retail sales without accounting for seasonal factors, providing an unfiltered view of consumer spending trends.
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 data series tracks total retail and food services sales on a nominal, not seasonally adjusted basis. It is an important indicator of consumer demand and economic activity that complements the seasonally adjusted retail sales data.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects and publishes this data monthly based on surveys of retail and food service establishments.
Historical Context
Economists and policymakers use this metric to analyze unfiltered consumer spending patterns and assess the underlying strength of the economy.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for about 40% of total consumer spending in the U.S.
- The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' series can show sharper month-to-month changes than the seasonally adjusted data.
- Consumer spending drives approximately 70% of U.S. economic activity.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' series tracks total retail and food services sales without adjusting for seasonal factors like holidays or weather.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric provides an unfiltered view of consumer spending patterns, which is a crucial driver of overall economic activity.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data monthly through surveys of retail and food service establishments.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Economists and policymakers analyze this metric to assess the underlying strength of consumer demand and inform economic policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published monthly, with a typical release lag of around two weeks following the reference period.
Related Trends
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Not Seasonally Adjusted (RSDSELDN), retrieved from FRED.