Percent of GDP, Quarterly, Seasonally Adjusted

BPBLTT01INQ188S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

-3.00

Year-over-Year Change

188.46%

Date Range

4/1/1996 - 4/1/2011

Summary

This economic indicator tracks the percentage of total U.S. GDP represented by balance of payments transactions. It provides insight into the nation's international trade and financial flows.

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 balance of payments (BOP) as a percentage of GDP is a key economic metric used to evaluate a country's international economic activity and financial position. It measures the net flow of goods, services, income, and capital into and out of the United States over a given time period.

Methodology

The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis using established national accounting principles.

Historical Context

Economists and policymakers monitor this BOP metric to assess the overall health of the U.S. economy and its global competitiveness.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. BOP has run a deficit since the 1970s.
  • The BOP tracks both current account and capital account transactions.
  • Measuring BOP as a percentage of GDP provides useful economic context.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This indicator tracks the balance of payments (BOP) as a percentage of total U.S. gross domestic product (GDP). It measures the net flow of goods, services, income, and capital into and out of the United States.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: The BOP percentage of GDP is a key metric used by economists and policymakers to evaluate the overall health of the U.S. economy and its global competitiveness.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis using established national accounting principles.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Economists and policymakers monitor this BOP metric to assess the country's international trade, financial flows, and macroeconomic performance.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The BOP data is published quarterly with a lag, so there may be delays in accessing the most recent information.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent of GDP, Quarterly, Seasonally Adjusted (BPBLTT01INQ188S), retrieved from FRED.