Resources and Assets: Federal Agency Obligations: Held Under Repurchase Agreements

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

Latest Value

0.00

Year-over-Year Change

N/A%

Date Range

10/19/1983 - 12/11/2002

Summary

This economic indicator tracks the volume of federal agency obligations held under repurchase agreements, which reflects short-term lending and liquidity in the financial system. It provides insights into the Federal Reserve's monetary operations and the broader interbank lending market.

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

Repurchase agreements (repos) are critical short-term funding mechanisms where federal agencies sell securities with an agreement to repurchase them later, effectively functioning as collateralized loans. Economists analyze this trend to understand market liquidity, financial institution behavior, and potential stress in the banking system.

Methodology

Data is collected through Federal Reserve reporting systems, tracking the total value of federal agency obligations temporarily sold with a commitment to repurchase at a specified future date.

Historical Context

This metric is used by policymakers and financial analysts to assess short-term credit market conditions and potential monetary policy interventions.

Key Facts

  • Represents short-term, collateralized lending between financial institutions
  • Indicates potential market liquidity and financial system stress
  • Fluctuates based on monetary policy and market conditions

FAQs

Q: What are repurchase agreements?

A: Repurchase agreements are short-term financial transactions where securities are sold with an agreement to buy them back at a later date, functioning as a form of collateralized lending.

Q: Why do federal agencies use repos?

A: Repos help manage short-term cash needs, provide liquidity, and allow financial institutions to temporarily access funds while maintaining asset ownership.

Q: How often is this data updated?

A: The RAFAOHURA data is typically updated weekly or monthly, depending on Federal Reserve reporting schedules.

Q: What does a high repo value indicate?

A: A high repo value can suggest increased short-term borrowing needs, potential market stress, or tight liquidity conditions in the financial system.

Q: Are there limitations to this economic indicator?

A: While informative, this metric provides a snapshot of short-term lending and should be analyzed alongside other financial and economic indicators for comprehensive insights.

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Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Resources and Assets: Federal Agency Obligations: Held Under Repurchase Agreements [RAFAOHURA], retrieved from FRED.

Last Checked: 8/1/2025