Monthly

XFORSD01RUM194N • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

234,761,000,000.00

Year-over-Year Change

-23.31%

Date Range

12/1/1993 - 12/1/2014

Summary

The Monthly trend measures the value of manufacturing and trade sales in the U.S. retail sector. This economic indicator is closely watched by policymakers and analysts for insights into consumer spending and overall 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 Monthly trend tracks the total sales volume for retail and food service establishments in the United States. It is a key measure of consumer demand and an important input for economic forecasting and policy decisions.

Methodology

The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses.

Historical Context

Retail sales are a vital component of GDP and a leading indicator of the overall health of the U.S. economy.

Key Facts

  • Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. GDP.
  • Consumer spending drives over two-thirds of economic activity.
  • The retail sector employs over 15 million people in the U.S.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Monthly trend measures the total value of sales at retail and food service establishments in the United States.

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

A: Retail sales data is a key indicator of consumer demand and an important input for economic forecasting and policy decisions.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses across the country.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Retail sales figures are closely monitored by policymakers and analysts to gauge the overall health of the U.S. economy.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The Monthly data is released with a short lag, typically 2-3 weeks after the end of each month.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Monthly (XFORSD01RUM194N), retrieved from FRED.