Quarterly

BPFADI02RUQ637N • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

-13,928,720,000.00

Year-over-Year Change

24.31%

Date Range

1/1/1994 - 4/1/2012

Summary

The Quarterly Household Debt Service Ratio measures the total required debt payments of U.S. households as a percentage of their disposable personal income. It is a key indicator of household financial health and consumer spending power.

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 Quarterly Household Debt Service Ratio is a widely tracked economic indicator that gauges the debt burden of U.S. households. It is used by policymakers, analysts, and economists to assess consumer financial conditions and predict future consumer spending and economic trends.

Methodology

This ratio is calculated by the Federal Reserve using data on household debt levels and disposable personal income.

Historical Context

The debt service ratio is closely monitored for its implications on consumer spending, which accounts for over two-thirds of U.S. economic activity.

Key Facts

  • The debt service ratio reached a record high of 13.2% in 2007 prior to the Great Recession.
  • A lower debt service ratio indicates households have more disposable income to spend on other goods and services.
  • The ratio declined sharply during the recession as households paid down debt, but has since gradually risen.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Quarterly Household Debt Service Ratio measures the total required debt payments of U.S. households as a percentage of their disposable personal income.

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

A: This ratio is a key indicator of household financial health and consumer spending power, which is crucial for assessing the overall state of the economy.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The Federal Reserve calculates this ratio using data on household debt levels and disposable personal income.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: The debt service ratio is closely monitored by policymakers, analysts, and economists for its implications on consumer spending and broader economic trends.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The Quarterly Household Debt Service Ratio data is published by the Federal Reserve with a lag of approximately two months.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Household Debt Service Ratio (BPFADI02RUQ637N), retrieved from FRED.