Seasonally Adjusted

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

Latest Value

4,606.50

Year-over-Year Change

10.36%

Date Range

1/1/1959 - 2/1/2006

Summary

The Seasonally Adjusted Total Consumer Borrowing (TOTTCBSL) tracks the aggregate consumer credit levels after accounting for predictable seasonal variations. This metric provides economists and policymakers with a more accurate representation of underlying credit trends by removing cyclical fluctuations.

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

This economic indicator represents the total consumer credit outstanding, normalized to eliminate seasonal patterns like holiday spending or summer vacation borrowing. Economists use this adjusted figure to understand the true trajectory of consumer lending and credit market dynamics.

Methodology

Data is collected through financial institution reports and adjusted using statistical techniques that remove predictable seasonal variations from raw credit borrowing numbers.

Historical Context

The metric is crucial for assessing consumer financial health, monetary policy decisions, and predicting potential economic expansions or contractions.

Key Facts

  • Removes predictable seasonal variations from credit data
  • Provides a more accurate view of underlying credit trends
  • Used by policymakers and financial analysts for economic assessment

FAQs

Q: What does seasonally adjusted mean?

A: Seasonally adjusted data removes predictable cyclical variations to reveal the underlying trend. This helps analysts understand true economic changes without seasonal noise.

Q: Why is seasonal adjustment important for consumer credit?

A: Consumer borrowing naturally fluctuates due to holidays, vacations, and other predictable events. Seasonal adjustment allows for more accurate analysis of credit market trends.

Q: How often is this data updated?

A: The Federal Reserve typically updates seasonally adjusted consumer credit data monthly, providing a current snapshot of borrowing trends.

Q: How do policymakers use this data?

A: Central banks and economic policymakers use this metric to assess consumer financial health, potential economic risks, and inform monetary policy decisions.

Q: What are the limitations of seasonally adjusted data?

A: While helpful, seasonal adjustments are based on statistical models and can sometimes over or under-correct for seasonal variations. Analysts always consider both adjusted and unadjusted data.

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Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Seasonally Adjusted [TOTTCBSL], retrieved from FRED.

Last Checked: 8/1/2025

Seasonally Adjusted | US Economic Trends