Primary income payments

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

Latest Value

362,713.00

Year-over-Year Change

43.63%

Date Range

1/1/1999 - 1/1/2025

Summary

Primary income payments represent the income earned by U.S. residents from their foreign investments and the income earned by foreigners from their U.S. investments. This key economic indicator provides insights into the U.S. international investment position.

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

Primary income payments track cross-border income flows, such as interest, dividends, and profits, that arise from the U.S. international investment position. This data is a crucial component of the U.S. balance of payments and national income accounts.

Methodology

The data is compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) based on surveys of international transactions.

Historical Context

Analysts and policymakers monitor primary income payments to assess the U.S. international economic position and competitiveness.

Key Facts

  • Primary income payments totaled $1.01 trillion in 2021.
  • The U.S. has been a net recipient of primary income since the 1980s.
  • Income from U.S. assets abroad exceeds income paid on foreign-owned assets in the U.S.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: Primary income payments track the income earned by U.S. residents from their foreign investments and the income earned by foreigners from their U.S. investments.

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

A: Primary income payments provide insights into the U.S. international investment position and are a crucial component of the U.S. balance of payments and national income accounts.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) based on surveys of international transactions.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Analysts and policymakers monitor primary income payments to assess the U.S. international economic position and competitiveness.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The primary income payments data is published quarterly with a lag of several months.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Primary income payments (IEAMI), retrieved from FRED.