Macro Dashboard

Methodology & Data Sources

This document outlines the methodology, data sources, and calculation principles used in this macroeconomic dashboard.

Data Sources

  • United States: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Federal Reserve, Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), Census Bureau.
  • China: National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), People's Bank of China (PBOC), General Administration of Customs.
  • United Kingdom: Office for National Statistics (ONS), Bank of England.
  • Japan: Statistics Bureau of Japan, Bank of Japan (BOJ).
  • Commodities: Global market benchmarks (WTI, Brent, LME, DCE).

Update Frequency

Most macroeconomic data (CPI, PMI, Employment) is released on a monthly basis. GDP is released quarterly. Interest rates and commodities are updated dynamically as central banks announce changes or as markets trade. Our platform synchronizes these updates within 24 hours of official release.

Disclaimers

The information provided on this dashboard is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice, investment recommendations, or an offer to buy or sell any financial instruments. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the data presented.

Data Definitions & Discrepancies

This dashboard displays macroeconomic data from multiple countries. Please be aware of the following cross-country methodological differences:

  1. CPI (Consumer Price Index):

    • US & UK: Generally focus on core CPI or specific baskets adjusted frequently.
    • China: The basket has a higher weighting on food (especially pork) and is adjusted less frequently.

  2. Unemployment Rate:

    • US: Based on broad household surveys (U-3 is the official rate, U-6 includes underemployed).
    • China: Primarily tracks the Urban Surveyed Unemployment Rate, which may not fully capture rural or migrant workforce fluctuations.

  3. Commodities (Units):

    • US (WTI Crude): Priced in USD per barrel (bbl).
    • China (Iron Ore): Priced in CNY per metric ton (MT) on the Dalian Commodity Exchange.

These discrepancies mean that direct 1:1 comparisons of absolute values (especially indices) across countries are not always applicable. We recommend comparing the trends and percentage changes rather than the nominal values.