Seasonally Adjusted

SBF8QSAMN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

1,378.00

Year-over-Year Change

2.15%

Date Range

7/1/2004 - 10/1/2019

Summary

The Seasonally Adjusted Retail Sales metric measures the total value of retail sales, adjusted for typical seasonal variations. It serves as 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

Retail sales are a major component of overall consumer spending, which drives a significant portion of economic growth. Seasonal adjustments help analysts identify underlying trends by removing predictable fluctuations due to holidays, weather, and other factors.

Methodology

The U.S. Census Bureau collects retail sales data from a sample of businesses and applies statistical models to adjust for seasonal patterns.

Historical Context

Policymakers and economists closely monitor retail sales trends to gauge the strength of consumer demand and inform economic forecasts and policy decisions.

Key Facts

  • Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
  • Seasonally adjusted data removes predictable fluctuations from month to month.
  • The retail sales metric covers a broad range of consumer purchases.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Seasonally Adjusted Retail Sales metric measures the total value of retail sales, with adjustments made to account for typical seasonal variations.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: Retail sales are a crucial indicator of consumer spending and overall economic activity, so this seasonally adjusted data helps analysts identify underlying trends and growth patterns.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects retail sales data from a sample of businesses and applies statistical models to adjust for seasonal patterns.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and economists closely monitor retail sales trends to gauge the strength of consumer demand and inform economic forecasts and policy decisions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The retail sales data is released monthly by the Census Bureau, with a typical 2-week delay from the end of the reporting period.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Seasonally Adjusted Retail Sales (SBF8QSAMN), retrieved from FRED.