Retail Inventories: Department Stores
IM4522USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
8,380.00
Year-over-Year Change
-0.59%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 5/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Inventories: Department Stores trend measures the inventory levels of department stores in the U.S. It provides insights into consumer demand and retailers' ability to manage their supply chains.
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 economic indicator tracks the value of physical goods held in inventory by department stores. It is an important gauge of consumer spending and business confidence, as retailers adjust inventory levels in response to market conditions.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of department stores by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts use this metric to assess the health of the retail sector and broader economic trends.
Key Facts
- Department stores account for a significant portion of U.S. retail sales.
- Inventory levels can signal retailers' confidence in future consumer demand.
- The data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Inventories: Department Stores trend measures the value of physical goods held in inventory by department stores in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric provides insights into consumer demand and retailers' ability to manage their supply chains, which are important indicators of the health of the retail sector and the broader economy.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of department stores conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use this metric to assess the state of the retail sector and consumer spending, which are key factors in shaping economic policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released monthly, with a typical delay of several weeks between the reference period and the publication date.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Inventories: Department Stores (IM4522USN), retrieved from FRED.