Central government debt, total (% of GDP) for the United States
DEBTTLUSA188A • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
114.76
Year-over-Year Change
28.15%
Date Range
1/1/1989 - 1/1/2023
Summary
This economic indicator measures the total outstanding debt of the U.S. federal government as a percentage of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It is a key metric for assessing the government's fiscal health and financial obligations.
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 central government debt-to-GDP ratio provides insight into a nation's indebtedness and ability to service its debt. It is widely used by economists, policymakers, and investors to evaluate a government's fiscal sustainability and creditworthiness.
Methodology
The data is calculated by the World Bank using official government finance statistics.
Historical Context
This metric informs economic policy decisions and is closely watched by financial markets.
Key Facts
- The U.S. government debt-to-GDP ratio reached a high of 134% in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Historically, the ratio has ranged from around 30% to 120% since the 1960s.
- High government debt levels can constrain a country's ability to respond to economic shocks or crises.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This indicator measures the total outstanding debt of the U.S. federal government as a percentage of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The central government debt-to-GDP ratio is a key metric for assessing a government's fiscal health, debt sustainability, and creditworthiness, which informs economic policy decisions and is closely watched by financial markets.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is calculated by the World Bank using official government finance statistics.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: This metric informs economic policy decisions and is closely watched by financial markets to evaluate a government's fiscal sustainability and ability to service its debt.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published with a lag, and there may be revisions to historical figures as governments update their fiscal statistics.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Central government debt, total (% of GDP) for the United States (DEBTTLUSA188A), retrieved from FRED.