WASHINGTON – Federal economic data released Tuesday revealed that wholesale inventory levels across the nation experienced a modest uptick during December, accompanied by robust sales performance.
According to the Commerce Department’s Census Bureau, wholesale stock levels climbed 0.2% during the final month of 2024, mirroring the identical growth rate recorded in November. Officials noted the report’s release was postponed due to previous government shutdown disruptions.
When compared to the same period the previous year, inventory levels jumped 2.9% in December. The data highlighted notable stock increases in automotive and furniture sectors.
However, professional equipment inventory levels dropped 0.2%, while computer equipment stocks decreased by 1.4%. Despite experiencing their third consecutive quarterly reduction, business inventories contributed positively to the fourth quarter’s 1.4% annualized GDP growth rate. Consistent consumer purchasing has led to inventory reductions. The nation’s economy expanded 4.4% during the July through September period.
Wholesale sales climbed 1.0% in December, following November’s stronger 1.4% surge. Based on December’s sales velocity, clearing current stock levels would require 1.27 months, an improvement from November’s 1.28-month timeline. The inventory-to-sales ratio measured 1.30 months in December 2024.
