US Retail Sales — Release Schedule
US Retail Sales measures the total value of sales at the retail level — a key gauge of consumer spending, which drives ~70% of US GDP.
About US Retail Sales
The US Census Bureau releases Retail Sales monthly, mid-month and usually around the 15th, at 08:30 ET (13:30 UTC). The weekday moves from month to month, so check the exact date rather than assuming one.
Core Retail Sales (excluding autos) and the Control Group (used directly in GDP calculations) are released alongside — the Control Group often matters more than the headline for economists.
A strong retail sales beat signals healthy consumer demand, supports USD, and pressures gold. A miss suggests slowing growth and typically weakens USD.
How US Retail Sales moves forex markets
- EURUSD and XAUUSD are the cleanest immediate reactions. US indices can move either way depending on whether strength is read as "good economy" or "more Fed tightening".
Frequently asked questions
When is US Retail Sales released?
Monthly at 08:30 ET (13:30 UTC), mid-month and usually around the 15th. The weekday varies, so confirm the date with the Census Bureau rather than assuming a fixed one.