Measures the change in the total value of inflation-adjusted sales at the retail level compared to the same month in the previous year. It is a primary indicator of consumer spending, which accounts for the majority of overall economic activity. High readings suggest a robust economy and increased consumer confidence, often leading to inflationary pressure.
Calculated by surveying a broad sample of retail firms of various sizes and types across the country. The data is then weighted to represent the entire retail sector and adjusted for seasonal variations to ensure accuracy.
| Date | Actual | Forecast | Surprise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 30, 2022 | -0.70 | 1.50 | -2.20 |
| Sep 29, 2022 | 2.30 | -0.80 | +3.10 |
| Aug 30, 2022 | -1.90 | -4.00 | +2.10 |
| Jul 28, 2022 | -1.50 | — | — |
| Jun 29, 2022 | 0.70 | 1.10 | -0.40 |
| May 30, 2022 | 0.50 | 3.70 | -3.20 |
| Apr 28, 2022 | 2.30 | 0.40 | +1.90 |
| Mar 30, 2022 | 1.60 | — | — |
| Mar 1, 2022 | 4.50 | 6.30 | -1.80 |
| Jan 27, 2022 | 6.50 | 6.50 | 0.00 |
| Dec 29, 2021 | 4.60 | 7.70 | -3.10 |
| Nov 29, 2021 | 7.40 | 4.20 | +3.20 |
| Oct 28, 2021 | 3.70 | 0.90 | +2.80 |
| Sep 29, 2021 | 3.80 | 6.60 | -2.80 |