Seasonally Adjusted

SBF8QSAUT • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

1,294.00

Year-over-Year Change

11.17%

Date Range

7/1/2004 - 10/1/2019

Summary

The Seasonally Adjusted retail sales data tracks monthly changes in U.S. retail and food service sales, providing insight into consumer spending patterns and the overall health of the economy.

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 Seasonally Adjusted retail sales metric adjusts for predictable seasonal variations, allowing analysts to identify underlying trends in consumer behavior. This data is a key indicator used by policymakers, economists, and investors to assess the direction of the economy.

Methodology

The U.S. Census Bureau collects and adjusts this data using statistical models to account for seasonal fluctuations.

Historical Context

Retail sales are a critical component of GDP and a leading indicator of economic conditions.

Key Facts

  • Retail sales account for about 40% of total consumer spending in the U.S.
  • Seasonal adjustments help identify long-term trends by removing predictable fluctuations.
  • Retail sales data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Seasonally Adjusted retail sales data tracks monthly changes in U.S. retail and food service sales, providing insight into consumer spending patterns.

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

A: This data is a key indicator used by policymakers, economists, and investors to assess the direction of the economy, as retail sales are a critical component of GDP and a leading indicator of economic conditions.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects and adjusts this data using statistical models to account for seasonal fluctuations.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Retail sales data is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other policymakers to inform decisions on monetary policy and assess the overall health of the consumer economy.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

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

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Seasonally Adjusted Retail Sales (SBF8QSAUT), retrieved from FRED.