5/1 Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) vs Retail Sales (Monthly Change)
5/1 Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) is currently 6.2% (down -0.1%). Retail Sales (Monthly Change) is currently -0.2% (down -0.4%).
| Metric | 5/1 Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) | Retail Sales (Monthly Change) |
|---|---|---|
| Current value | 6.2% | -0.2% |
| Previous reading | 6.22% | 0.2% |
| Change | -0.1% | -0.4% |
| Trend | down | down |
| Frequency | Weekly | Monthly |
| Source | Freddie Mac | U.S. Census Bureau |
| Last updated | 2026-04-03 | 2026-03-17 |
| Category | rates | consumer |
What 5/1 Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) measures
The 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) offers a fixed rate for the first 5 years, then adjusts annually based on a benchmark index plus a margin. ARMs typically start with a lower rate than 30-year fixed mortgages, making them attractive for buyers who plan to sell or refinance within 5-7 years.
At 6.17%, the 5/1 ARM offers a modest discount to the 30-year fixed rate of 6.64%. When this spread is narrow (under 0.5%), the risk-reward of choosing an ARM is less compelling — you take on rate adjustment risk for relatively little savings. A wider spread (1%+) makes ARMs more attractive. For real estate investors and corporate relocation programs, ARMs can reduce carrying costs on properties held for short periods.
What Retail Sales (Monthly Change) measures
Retail sales measures the total receipts of retail stores, covering purchases of durable and nondurable goods. It is a timely indicator of consumer demand and is closely watched for signs of economic strength or weakness.
Retail sales declined 0.2% in the latest report, following a weak January (-0.9%). Excluding autos and gas, the picture is slightly better. For executives in retail and consumer goods, the data suggests consumers are pulling back on discretionary purchases while maintaining spending on essentials. E-commerce continues to gain share of total retail sales.
Frequently asked
5/1 Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) is currently 6.2%, down -0.1% from the previous reading. Source: Freddie Mac, updated weekly.
Retail Sales (Monthly Change) is currently -0.2%, down -0.4% from the previous reading. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, updated monthly.
At 6.17%, the 5/1 ARM offers a modest discount to the 30-year fixed rate of 6.64%. When this spread is narrow (under 0.5%), the risk-reward of choosing an ARM is less compelling — you take on rate adj Retail sales declined 0.2% in the latest report, following a weak January (-0.9%). Excluding autos and gas, the picture is slightly better. For executives in retail and consumer goods, the data sugges