Quarterly, Seasonally Adjusted

BPDBIN01LUQ636S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

55,669,000,000.00

Year-over-Year Change

48.74%

Date Range

1/1/1995 - 1/1/2014

Summary

This economic trend measures the U.S. balance of payments, specifically the balance on goods, services, and income. It is a key indicator of the nation's international economic activity and a critical data point for policymakers and analysts.

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 tracks a country's transactions with the rest of the world, including trade in goods and services, income flows, and financial transfers. This data series provides a comprehensive overview of the U.S. external accounts and is widely used to assess the nation's economic performance and global competitiveness.

Methodology

The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis based on surveys and administrative records.

Historical Context

The balance of payments is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve, the Treasury Department, and international economic organizations to inform policy decisions and market analysis.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. has run a persistent trade deficit since the 1970s.
  • Goods trade accounts for the largest component of the balance of payments.
  • The balance of payments data is published quarterly by the BEA.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the U.S. balance of payments, which tracks the country's transactions with the rest of the world, including trade in goods and services, income flows, and financial transfers.

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

A: The balance of payments is a critical indicator of a country's international economic activity and competitiveness. It is closely monitored by policymakers, economists, and market participants to assess the nation's economic performance and guide policy decisions.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis based on surveys and administrative records.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: The balance of payments data is used by the Federal Reserve, the Treasury Department, and international economic organizations to inform policy decisions and market analysis related to trade, monetary policy, and the broader economic outlook.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The balance of payments data is published quarterly by the Bureau of Economic Analysis, with a typical release delay of 2-3 months after the end of the reference period.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Balance on Goods, Services, and Income (BPDBIN01LUQ636S), retrieved from FRED.