Federal Debt Held by Foreign and International Investors as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
This dataset tracks federal debt held by foreign and international investors as percent of gross domestic product over time.
Latest Value
30.20
Year-over-Year Change
0.15%
Date Range
1/1/1970 - 1/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the share of U.S. federal debt held by foreign and international investors as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP). It provides insight into the foreign appetite for U.S. government securities and the composition of U.S. debt financing.
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 Federal Debt Held by Foreign and International Investors as Percent of GDP tracks the portion of outstanding U.S. Treasury securities that are owned by foreign governments, institutions, and individuals. This metric is closely watched by policymakers and analysts as an indicator of global demand for U.S. debt and the country's reliance on foreign capital.
Methodology
The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Federal Reserve based on its Flow of Funds accounts.
Historical Context
This trend is used to assess the sustainability of U.S. fiscal policy and monitor the nation's vulnerability to changes in foreign investment sentiment.
Key Facts
- U.S. federal debt held by foreign and international investors reached a peak of over 47% of GDP in 2008.
- China and Japan are the largest foreign holders of U.S. Treasuries, accounting for over $3 trillion in holdings.
- The share of U.S. debt held by foreigners has declined from its highs but remains historically elevated.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the percentage of outstanding U.S. federal debt that is owned by foreign governments, institutions, and individuals.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: It provides insight into global demand for U.S. government securities and the sustainability of the nation's fiscal policy and debt financing.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Federal Reserve based on its Flow of Funds accounts.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use this metric to assess the U.S. government's reliance on foreign capital and vulnerability to changes in global investment sentiment.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published quarterly with a lag, and may be subject to periodic revisions by the Federal Reserve.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Federal Debt Held by Foreign and International Investors as Percent of Gross Domestic Product (HBFIGDQ188S), retrieved from FRED.