The trend since 2019.
The latest available read: Retail Sales YoY is at 5.01% as of July 2026. Source: FRED · RSXFS.
Why it matters.
When retail sales weaken, it often signals consumers are pulling back on spending, which ripples through hiring and wage growth across the economy. If this slowdown persists, it could eventually affect your job security and how much retailers invest in new locations or raises.
Where it fits.
Retail Sales YoY feeds the Consumer view — one of the six areas behind the site's Macro IQ score.