Retail Sales

Definition:

This index measures the total sales of goods by all retail establishments in the U.S. (sales of services are not included). These figures are in current dollars, that is, they are not adjusted for inflation. However, the data are adjusted for seasonal, holiday and trading-day differences between the months of the year.

Importance:

This is considered the most timely indicator of broad consumer spending patterns. It gives you a sense of the trends among different types of retailers. These trends can help you spot specific investment opportunities. It's important to monitor retail sales excluding autos and trucks to avoid the move extreme volatility.

Source:

The Census Bureau of the Department of Commerce.

Availability:

Around the 12th of the month at 8:30am ET. Data for month prior.

Frequency:

Monthly.

Revisions:

Data for the prior two months are revised monthly to incorporate more complete information. New seasonal adjustment factors are introduced in February. This revision affects at least three years worth of data. Its significance is moderate.

Raw Data:

http://www.census.gov/svsd/www/advtable.html

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