Monitor US Core Retail Sales m/m to gauge consumer spending trends, excluding volatile auto sales.
This is the key indicator of consumer spending, which constitutes the bulk of overall economic activity. Automobile sales represent roughly 20% of Retail Sales, but they are highly volatile and can obscure the underlying trends. Consequently, the Core data is considered a more reliable indicator of spending patterns.
What it Measures
The change in the total value of retail sales, excluding automobile sales.
Usual Effect
A reported 'Actual' value that exceeds the 'Forecast' is favorable for the currency.
Source & Frequency
Census Bureau (latest release) - https://www.census.gov/ • Published monthly, approximately 16 days after the conclusion of the month.
How Data is Derived
N/A
Also Known As
Retail Sales Ex Autos
Acronym
N/A