Chain-Type Quantity Index for Real GDP: Utilities (22) in North Carolina

Quarterly, Seasonally Adjusted

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

Latest Value

98.96

Year-over-Year Change

-22.08%

Date Range

1/1/2005 - 1/1/2025

Summary

The Quarterly, Seasonally Adjusted series measures the U.S. industrial capacity utilization rate, which indicates the degree to which the nation's industrial production facilities are in use. This metric is closely watched by economists and policymakers as a gauge of economic activity and inflationary pressures.

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 capacity utilization rate tracks the percentage of the nation's industrial production capacity that is actually being used. It reflects how efficiently factories, mines, and utilities are operating relative to their full potential output. This metric is a key indicator of economic performance and can signal emerging inflationary pressures.

Methodology

The data is collected through monthly surveys of industrial firms and calculated by the U.S. Federal Reserve.

Historical Context

Capacity utilization is used by the Federal Reserve and other economic analysts to assess the health of the manufacturing sector and the broader economy.

Key Facts

  • The historical average capacity utilization rate is around 80%.
  • Rates above 85% may indicate inflationary pressures.
  • Capacity utilization bottomed out at 65% during the 2008-2009 recession.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Quarterly, Seasonally Adjusted series measures the percentage of the nation's industrial production capacity that is actually being used.

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

A: The capacity utilization rate is a key indicator of economic performance and can signal emerging inflationary pressures, making it closely watched by economists and policymakers.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of industrial firms and calculated by the U.S. Federal Reserve.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Capacity utilization is used by the Federal Reserve and other economic analysts to assess the health of the manufacturing sector and the broader economy.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The capacity utilization data is released monthly with a short delay and is subject to revisions as more information becomes available.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly, Seasonally Adjusted (NCUTILQQGSP), retrieved from FRED.