Sales: Retail Trade: Total Retail Trade: Volume for Australia

Growth rate same period previous year

SLRTTO01AUQ659S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

1.16

Year-over-Year Change

-76.61%

Date Range

7/1/1984 - 1/1/2025

Summary

The 'Growth rate same period previous year' measures the annual percent change in retail and food services sales. This economic indicator provides insights into consumer spending and the overall health of the U.S. economy.

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 data series tracks the year-over-year growth rate in total U.S. retail and food services sales, adjusting for seasonal variations. It is a key metric for analyzing consumer demand, economic momentum, and potential inflationary pressures.

Methodology

The U.S. Census Bureau collects and calculates this data based on surveys of retail and food service establishments.

Historical Context

Economists and policymakers closely monitor this indicator to gauge consumer behavior and inform decisions around monetary and fiscal policy.

Key Facts

  • Retail and food services sales account for nearly 50% of total U.S. consumer spending.
  • The growth rate reached a high of 24.0% in April 2021 as the economy rebounded from the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Declines in this metric can signal an economic slowdown or recessions.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The 'Growth rate same period previous year' measures the annual percent change in total U.S. retail and food services sales, adjusted for seasonal variations.

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

A: This indicator provides insights into consumer spending patterns and the overall health of the U.S. economy, making it a key metric for economists, policymakers, and market analysts.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects data from surveys of retail and food service establishments and calculates the year-over-year growth rate.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Economists and policymakers monitor this indicator to gauge consumer behavior and inform decisions around monetary and fiscal policy, such as interest rates and government spending.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is published monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical release lag of around 2 weeks.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Growth rate same period previous year (SLRTTO01AUQ659S), retrieved from FRED.