Real Sectoral Output for Wholesale Trade: Drugs and Druggists' Sundries Merchant Wholesalers (NAICS 42421) in the United States

IPUGN42421T010000000 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

147.31

Year-over-Year Change

35.21%

Date Range

1/1/1987 - 1/1/2024

Summary

This economic trend measures the real output of the wholesale trade industry for drugs and druggists' sundries merchant wholesalers in the United States. It provides insight into the productivity and performance of this key sector.

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 Real Sectoral Output for Wholesale Trade: Drugs and Druggists' Sundries Merchant Wholesalers (NAICS 42421) tracks the volume of goods distributed by wholesale drug and sundries merchants. This indicator helps economists and policymakers assess the health and competitiveness of the pharmaceutical supply chain.

Methodology

The data is calculated by the U.S. Federal Reserve using production indexes and deflation techniques.

Historical Context

This metric is used to inform economic policy decisions and monitor market conditions in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.

Key Facts

  • The wholesale trade industry accounts for over $6 trillion in annual sales in the U.S.
  • Drugs and druggists' sundries make up one of the largest subsectors within wholesale trade.
  • This metric tracks volume, not dollar values, to isolate changes in physical output.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the real output, or physical volume, of goods distributed by wholesale trade establishments specializing in drugs and druggists' sundries in the United States.

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

A: This metric provides insight into the productivity and competitiveness of a key sector within the pharmaceutical supply chain, which is crucial for understanding healthcare costs and market dynamics.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The U.S. Federal Reserve calculates this index using production data and appropriate deflation techniques to isolate changes in physical output.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and economists monitor this indicator to assess the health of the pharmaceutical distribution system and inform decisions around healthcare, trade, and competition policies.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The Federal Reserve publishes this data on a monthly basis, with a typical lag of 1-2 months. The index may not capture all aspects of the wholesale drug trade, such as direct-to-consumer distribution.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Real Sectoral Output for Wholesale Trade: Drugs and Druggists' Sundries Merchant Wholesalers (NAICS 42421) in the United States (IPUGN42421T010000000), retrieved from FRED.