Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: Plastics and Rubber Products: Net Working Capital

QFRNWC326USNO • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

41,863.00

Year-over-Year Change

-13.72%

Date Range

10/1/2000 - 1/1/2025

Summary

This economic indicator tracks the net working capital for U.S. corporations in the plastics and rubber products manufacturing sector. It provides critical insights into the short-term financial health and operational liquidity of companies within this specific industrial segment.

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

Net working capital represents the difference between current assets and current liabilities, reflecting a company's operational efficiency and short-term financial flexibility. Economists and financial analysts use this metric to assess the sector's financial stability and potential for investment or expansion.

Methodology

Data is collected through comprehensive quarterly financial surveys of U.S. corporations in the plastics and rubber products manufacturing industry, compiled and standardized by federal economic research agencies.

Historical Context

This trend is used by policymakers, investors, and economic researchers to understand industrial sector performance, potential supply chain dynamics, and broader manufacturing economic health.

Key Facts

  • Measures short-term financial health of plastics and rubber product manufacturers
  • Indicates operational efficiency and liquidity of the sector
  • Provides quarterly insights into industrial manufacturing financial performance

FAQs

Q: What does net working capital indicate?

A: Net working capital shows a company's ability to meet short-term obligations and fund operations using current assets. A positive value suggests financial flexibility and operational efficiency.

Q: Why is this metric important for the plastics and rubber products sector?

A: It helps investors and analysts understand the financial health and operational capabilities of manufacturers in this specific industrial segment. The metric can signal potential growth or financial challenges.

Q: How often is this data updated?

A: The Quarterly Financial Report is typically updated on a quarterly basis, providing regular snapshots of the sector's financial performance.

Q: Can this trend predict economic shifts?

A: While not a definitive predictor, changes in net working capital can provide early signals about potential economic trends in manufacturing and broader industrial sectors.

Q: What are the limitations of this metric?

A: Net working capital is a snapshot of financial health and should be considered alongside other financial indicators. It does not capture long-term investment potential or comprehensive financial performance.

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Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: Plastics and Rubber Products: Net Working Capital [QFRNWC326USNO], retrieved from FRED.

Last Checked: 8/1/2025