Index 2010=1, Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted

ULQBBU05ATA661N • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

1.00

Year-over-Year Change

20.93%

Date Range

1/1/1988 - 1/1/2010

Summary

This index measures changes in unit labor costs for the U.S. business sector, a key indicator of inflationary pressures. Economists and policymakers closely monitor this metric to assess productivity and gauge the potential for price increases.

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 unit labor cost index tracks the cost of labor per unit of output, reflecting a combination of changes in wages and labor productivity. This provides insights into the relationship between employment costs and business profitability, which can inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.

Methodology

The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics based on measures of hourly compensation and productivity.

Historical Context

The unit labor cost index is a valuable input for the Federal Reserve and other policymakers in evaluating the economic environment and setting appropriate policy responses.

Key Facts

  • The index uses 2010 as the base year with a value of 1.
  • The data is reported annually on a not seasonally adjusted basis.
  • Rising unit labor costs can signal potential inflationary pressures in the economy.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The unit labor cost index tracks changes in the cost of labor per unit of output in the U.S. business sector, providing insights into productivity and inflationary pressures.

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

A: This metric is closely monitored by economists and policymakers as it helps assess the relationship between employment costs and business profitability, which can inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics based on measures of hourly compensation and productivity.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: The unit labor cost index is a valuable input for the Federal Reserve and other policymakers in evaluating the economic environment and setting appropriate policy responses.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is reported annually on a not seasonally adjusted basis, which may limit its timeliness for some analyses.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Index 2010=1, Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted (ULQBBU05ATA661N), retrieved from FRED.