Sales: Retail Trade: Car Registration: Passenger Cars for United States

Growth rate previous period, Annual

SLRTCR03USA657S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

-27.92

Year-over-Year Change

166.28%

Date Range

1/1/1960 - 1/1/2020

Summary

The 'Growth rate previous period, Annual' trend measures the year-over-year change in retail sales, providing insight into consumer spending and broader economic conditions.

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 annual growth rate tracks the change in retail sales compared to the same period in the prior year. It is a key indicator of consumer demand and can signal broader economic trends and shifts in household spending patterns.

Methodology

The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Historical Context

Policymakers and analysts closely monitor retail sales growth to assess the health of the consumer sector and make informed decisions.

Key Facts

  • Retail sales account for about 30% of total consumer spending in the U.S.
  • The all-time high for annual retail sales growth was 18.2% in May 2021.
  • Weak retail sales growth can signal an economic slowdown or recession.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The 'Growth rate previous period, Annual' metric tracks the year-over-year change in retail sales, providing insight into consumer spending patterns.

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

A: Retail sales growth is a crucial indicator of consumer demand and the overall health of the economy, making it highly relevant for policymakers, businesses, and analysts.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and central banks closely monitor retail sales growth to assess the state of the consumer sector and make informed decisions about monetary and fiscal policies.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The retail sales data is typically released on a monthly basis with a short lag, allowing for timely analysis of consumer spending trends.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Growth rate previous period, Annual (SLRTCR03USA657S), retrieved from FRED.