Retail Sales MoM measures the monthly change in the total value of sales at the retail level, serving as the primary gauge of consumer spending. Since consumer spending accounts for a significant portion of overall economic activity, this indicator is a critical driver of GDP growth. It provides early insights into household consumption patterns and the underlying strength of the domestic economy.
The data is compiled from a survey of retail firms of various sizes and types. The figure is seasonally adjusted to account for holiday periods and trading day differences, though it is not adjusted for inflation.
| Date | Actual | Forecast | Surprise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 17, 2013 | -1.40 | — | — |
| Sep 18, 2013 | 2.40 | — | — |
| Aug 19, 2013 | 2.60 | — | — |
| Jul 17, 2013 | 3.10 | — | — |
| Jun 20, 2013 | 2.10 | — | — |
| May 24, 2013 | -0.10 | — | — |
| Mar 20, 2013 | -1.80 | — | — |