economic indicator

noun

1. a statistical measure representing an economic variable

   the retail price index is an economic indicator of the actual level of prices

Example Sentences

A survey conducted by the University of Michigan revealed that consumer sentiment — a key economic indicator — dropped 12% in March, the third consecutive month of reduced confidence in the economy.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

But raw unemployment is considered a lagging economic indicator, and there is quite a bit of evidence supporting the premise that, below the surface, the biggest drivers of new employment — online job listings — have become elaborate façades destined to cause more problems than they solve for those seeking work.

Read more on Salon

But Wall Street and Washington are closely monitoring another worrying economic indicator: the struggling consumer.

Read more on New York Times

Yes, plenty of people have retirement savings in their 401ks but for the most part, this particular economic indicator doesn't tell the average American much about their everyday economic lives.

Read more on Salon

The main economic indicator will be Australian retail sales for October.

Read more on Reuters