FX.co ★ U.S. Redbook Index Jumps to 9.1% YoY, Signaling Stronger Retail Sales Momentum

U.S. retail activity accelerated according to the latest Redbook data, with the year-over-year index rising to 9.1% as of 25 August 2026, up from a previously reported 7.6%. The Redbook indicator tracks same-store sales at large U.S. retailers, offering an early, high-frequency snapshot of consumer spending trends.

The current 9.1% reading means that sales for the reported month are 9.1% higher than in the same month a year earlier. By comparison, the previous 7.6% figure measured the change in sales in the prior month versus its year-ago level. The pickup suggests that retail demand has strengthened on an annual basis, with the pace of sales growth gaining traction relative to the earlier period.

Because the Redbook index is based on a year-over-year comparison, it helps smooth out shorter-term volatility and seasonal effects. The move from 7.6% to 9.1% YoY indicates not only continued expansion in U.S. retail sales, but also a notable acceleration in that growth as of late August 2026.