Sales: Retail Trade: Total Retail Trade: Volume for Canada
Growth rate previous period, Quarterly
SLRTTO01CAQ657S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
0.75
Year-over-Year Change
-188.46%
Date Range
4/1/1970 - 1/1/2022
Summary
This economic trend measures the quarterly growth rate of retail sales, 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
The growth rate previous period, quarterly trend represents the quarter-over-quarter percent change in U.S. retail and food service sales, adjusted for seasonal variations. Retail sales are a widely tracked metric for assessing the health of the consumer sector and broader economy.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects retail sales data through monthly surveys of retail businesses.
Historical Context
Analysts and policymakers monitor retail sales growth to gauge consumer confidence and make informed decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 30% of total U.S. consumer spending.
- The all-time high for quarterly retail sales growth was 18.3% in Q3 2021.
- Weak retail sales growth can signal an economic slowdown or recession.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the quarter-over-quarter percent change in U.S. retail and food service sales, adjusted for seasonal variations.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales growth is a key indicator of consumer spending and economic activity, making it highly relevant for analysts, economists, and policymakers.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects retail sales data through monthly surveys of retail businesses.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Analysts and policymakers monitor retail sales growth to gauge consumer confidence and make informed decisions about monetary and fiscal policies.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is published monthly, with a slight delay, and may be subject to revisions as more complete information becomes available.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Growth rate previous period, Quarterly (SLRTTO01CAQ657S), retrieved from FRED.