Merchant Wholesalers, Except Manufacturers' Sales Branches and Offices: Durable Goods: Metals and Minerals, Except Petroleum Sales
S4235SM144SCEN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
18,073.00
Year-over-Year Change
4.34%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures sales of durable goods, specifically metals and minerals (excluding petroleum), by merchant wholesalers in the United States. It provides insight into the health and activity of the wholesale trade sector.
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 Merchant Wholesalers, Except Manufacturers' Sales Branches and Offices: Durable Goods: Metals and Minerals, Except Petroleum Sales trend tracks monthly sales for a key segment of the wholesale trade industry. It serves as an indicator of demand and economic conditions in the metals and minerals supply chain.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of merchant wholesalers by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
This trend is used by economists, policymakers, and analysts to assess the state of the wholesale trade market and broader industrial activity.
Key Facts
- Wholesale trade accounts for over $6 trillion in annual sales in the U.S.
- Metals and minerals (excluding petroleum) make up a significant portion of durable goods wholesaling.
- This trend has shown volatility during periods of economic uncertainty.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures monthly sales of durable goods, specifically metals and minerals (excluding petroleum), by merchant wholesalers in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This trend provides insight into the health and activity of the wholesale trade sector, which is an important indicator of broader industrial and economic conditions.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of merchant wholesalers conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: This trend is used by economists, policymakers, and analysts to assess the state of the wholesale trade market and broader industrial activity, which can inform economic policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released monthly with a 2-month lag, so the most recent figures may not reflect the latest economic conditions.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Merchant Wholesalers, Except Manufacturers' Sales Branches and Offices: Durable Goods: Metals and Minerals, Except Petroleum Sales (S4235SM144SCEN), retrieved from FRED.