Gross Federal Debt as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
This dataset tracks gross federal debt as percent of gross domestic product over time.
Latest Value
119.00
Year-over-Year Change
25.74%
Date Range
1/1/1939 - 1/1/2023
Summary
The Gross Federal Debt as Percent of Gross Domestic Product (GFDGDPA188S) tracks the ratio of the U.S. federal government's total debt to the size of the national economy, providing insight into fiscal sustainability.
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
This economic indicator measures the federal government's total debt obligations as a percentage of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It is a key metric used by economists and policymakers to assess the federal government's fiscal health and long-term debt burden.
Methodology
The data is calculated by the U.S. Federal Reserve using official government debt and GDP figures.
Historical Context
Policymakers monitor this trend to gauge the affordability of government borrowing and the potential economic risks of high debt levels.
Key Facts
- The U.S. federal debt-to-GDP ratio reached a historic high of 136% in 2020 due to pandemic-related spending.
- High debt-to-GDP ratios can constrain a government's ability to respond to economic shocks or invest in growth.
- Reducing the debt-to-GDP ratio is often a key objective of fiscal consolidation policies.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Gross Federal Debt as Percent of Gross Domestic Product (GFDGDPA188S) measures the ratio of the U.S. federal government's total debt obligations to the size of the national economy.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric is a crucial indicator of the federal government's fiscal sustainability and ability to manage its debt burden. It is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and financial markets.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is calculated by the U.S. Federal Reserve using official government debt and GDP figures.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers monitor the federal debt-to-GDP ratio to assess the affordability of government borrowing and the potential economic risks of high debt levels, which can inform fiscal policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published quarterly with a slight delay, and may be subject to revisions as underlying debt and GDP figures are updated.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Gross Federal Debt as Percent of Gross Domestic Product (GFDGDPA188S), retrieved from FRED.