Growth Rate Previous Period, Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted
SLRTTO01O1A657S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
2.16
Year-over-Year Change
-26.46%
Date Range
1/1/1971 - 1/1/2016
Summary
This economic trend measures the annual growth rate of retail sales, providing insights into 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
The growth rate of retail sales is a key indicator of consumer demand and the overall health of the economy. It tracks the year-over-year change in the value of retail transactions, offering a real-time gauge of economic momentum.
Methodology
The data is collected through surveys of retail establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Retail sales growth is closely monitored by policymakers, investors, and economists to assess the strength of consumer spending and guide economic decision-making.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for about 40% of total consumer spending in the U.S.
- The retail sales growth rate reached a high of 18.5% in March 2021 as the economy recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Consumer spending is a major driver of economic growth, comprising over two-thirds of U.S. GDP.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the year-over-year growth rate of retail sales, which reflects changes in consumer spending and overall economic activity.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales growth is a key indicator of consumer demand and economic health, making it closely watched by policymakers, investors, and economists.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through surveys of retail establishments conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales growth is a crucial input for assessing the strength of consumer spending, which in turn informs monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales growth data is released monthly by the Census Bureau, with a short delay to allow for data collection and processing.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Growth Rate Previous Period, Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted (SLRTTO01O1A657S), retrieved from FRED.