Retail Inventories: Retail Trade
MRTSIM44000USS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
807,091.00
Year-over-Year Change
3.26%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 5/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Inventories: Retail Trade trend measures the total value of goods held by retailers across the United States. This metric provides insight into consumer demand and supply chain dynamics.
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 indicator tracks the dollar value of merchandise held in inventory by retail establishments. It is used by economists and policymakers to analyze current business conditions and forecast future economic activity.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail businesses.
Historical Context
Retail inventory levels are an important input for monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail inventories totaled $705.3 billion in May 2023.
- Inventory-to-sales ratio was 1.50 in May 2023.
- Retail inventory data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Inventories: Retail Trade metric tracks the total dollar value of merchandise held in inventory by retail establishments across the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail inventory levels provide insights into consumer demand, supply chain dynamics, and broader economic conditions.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail businesses.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail inventory levels are an important input for monetary and fiscal policy decisions made by economists and policymakers.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Retail Inventories: Retail Trade data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau with a short delay.
Related Trends
Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: Retail Trade, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
MRTSIR4400AUSS
Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: Building Materials and Garden Equipment and Supplies Dealers
MRTSIR444USS
Retail Sales: All Other General Merchandise Stores
MPCSM452319USN
Retail Sales: Gift, Novelty, and Souvenir Stores
MRTSSM45322USN
Retail Inventories: Retail Trade, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
MRTSIM4400AUSS
Retail Sales: Retail Trade and Food Services
MRTSSM44X72USS
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Inventories: Retail Trade (MRTSIM44000USS), retrieved from FRED.