Growth Rate Same Period Previous Year, Monthly, Seasonally Adjusted

LCEAMN01G7M659S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

1.32

Year-over-Year Change

-41.38%

Date Range

1/1/1965 - 8/1/2017

Summary

This economic trend measures the year-over-year growth rate of monthly retail sales in the United States, adjusted for seasonal variations. It provides insights into consumer spending patterns and is a key indicator of overall economic health.

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 Same Period Previous Year, Monthly, Seasonally Adjusted metric tracks the percent change in retail sales compared to the same month of the prior year, after accounting for typical seasonal fluctuations. This helps economists and policymakers assess the momentum of consumer demand.

Methodology

The U.S. Census Bureau collects retail sales data from a sample of businesses and calculates this seasonally adjusted growth rate.

Historical Context

Retail sales growth is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.

Key Facts

  • Retail sales account for about 30% of total U.S. consumer spending.
  • The growth rate reached a record high of 45.2% in May 2021 as the economy rebounded from the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Slower retail sales growth can signal an economic slowdown or reduced consumer confidence.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the year-over-year percent change in U.S. retail sales, adjusted for typical seasonal variations.

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

A: Retail sales growth is a key indicator of consumer demand and overall economic health, making it important for economists, policymakers, and market analysts.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects retail sales data from a sample of businesses and calculates the seasonally adjusted year-over-year growth rate.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: The Federal Reserve and other institutions closely monitor retail sales growth to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions that aim to support stable economic growth.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The retail sales data is published monthly by the Census Bureau, with a typical 2-week delay between the reference month and the public release.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Growth Rate Same Period Previous Year, Monthly, Seasonally Adjusted (LCEAMN01G7M659S), retrieved from FRED.