Millions of Dollars
MRTSSM4521IUSN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
12,444.00
Year-over-Year Change
1.89%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 3/1/2018
Summary
The 'Millions of Dollars' trend measures monthly retail sales in the United States, a key indicator of consumer spending and 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
This series tracks the total dollar value of retail and food services sales, providing insights into consumer demand and the overall health of the U.S. economy. It is closely monitored by economists, policymakers, and market analysts.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are used to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for about 30% of total U.S. economic activity.
- E-commerce sales have steadily increased as a share of total retail sales.
- Consumer spending is a major driver of GDP growth in the United States.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The 'Millions of Dollars' trend measures the total monthly retail and food services sales in the United States, providing insights into consumer spending and economic activity.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales data is a key indicator of consumer demand and the overall health of the U.S. economy, making it highly relevant for economists, policymakers, and market analysts.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses across the United States.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales figures are closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other policymakers to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions that aim to support economic growth and stability.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical release lag of around two weeks after the end of the reference month.
Related Trends
Retail Sales: Office Supplies and Stationery Stores
MRTSSM45321USN
Retail Sales: Hardware Stores
MRTSSM44413USN
Advance Retail Inventories: Retail (Excluding Food Services)
ARINVTS
Retail Sales: Floor Covering Stores
MRTSSM44221USN
Retail Sales: GAFO (General Merchandise Normally Sold in Department Stores)
MRTSMPCSM4400CUSN
Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: Clothing and Clothing Accessory Stores
MRTSIR448USS
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Millions of Dollars (MRTSSM4521IUSN), retrieved from FRED.