Quarterly, Not Seasonally Adjusted
BOPXCN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
1.71
Year-over-Year Change
12.08%
Date Range
1/1/1986 - 1/1/2014
Summary
The Quarterly, Not Seasonally Adjusted data series measures the U.S. current account balance, a key indicator of the nation's trade position and international economic engagement.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The current account balance tracks the difference between a country's total imports and exports of goods, services, and net income. It is a critical metric for assessing a nation's external economic standing and competitiveness.
Methodology
The data is collected and published quarterly by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
Historical Context
Economists and policymakers closely monitor the current account balance to inform trade, monetary, and fiscal policies.
Key Facts
- The U.S. current account deficit was $218.9 billion in Q4 2022.
- The deficit has widened in recent years due to rising imports.
- A large current account deficit can signal economic challenges like weakening competitiveness.
FAQs
Q: What does the Quarterly, Not Seasonally Adjusted current account balance measure?
A: This data series tracks the difference between the total value of U.S. imports and exports of goods, services, and net income.
Q: Why is the current account balance an important economic indicator?
A: The current account balance provides insights into a country's trade position, international competitiveness, and ability to finance domestic spending.
Q: How is the current account balance data collected and calculated?
A: The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis compiles the current account balance data from various trade, investment, and income sources on a quarterly basis.
Q: How do policymakers and analysts use the current account balance?
A: Economists and policymakers monitor the current account to assess the nation's external economic standing, inform trade negotiations, and guide monetary and fiscal policies.
Q: Are there any limitations or delays in the current account balance data?
A: The current account balance data is published quarterly with a lag, so it may not reflect the most recent economic conditions.
Related Trends
Secondary income receipts, International Transactions Accounts
LA0000421A027NBEA
Secondary income receipts: Adjustment for U.S. territories and Puerto Rico
LA0000341A027NBEA
Secondary income receipts: Statistical differences, ITA vs. NIPA
LA0000331A027NBEA
Primary Income Receipts: Investment income: Portfolio investment income
IEAXIP
Primary income receipts
IEAXI
Primary Income Receipts: Investment income
IEAXII
Citation
U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Balance on Current Account (BOPXCN), retrieved from FRED.