Liabilities and Capital: Other Factors Draining Reserve Balances: Currency in Circulation: Week Average

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

Latest Value

2,400.03

Year-over-Year Change

0.72%

Date Range

6/7/2006 - 7/30/2025

Summary

This economic indicator tracks the weekly average of U.S. currency in circulation, reflecting the total amount of physical cash distributed throughout the economy. The metric provides crucial insights into monetary liquidity, consumer behavior, and the Federal Reserve's monetary policy implementation.

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

Currency in circulation represents the total value of physical currency outside of bank vaults and Federal Reserve banks, serving as a key measure of money supply and economic activity. Economists analyze this trend to understand cash demand, potential inflationary pressures, and broader monetary dynamics.

Methodology

The Federal Reserve calculates this weekly average by tracking the total volume of physical currency distributed across the United States banking system.

Historical Context

Policymakers and financial analysts use this data to assess monetary policy effectiveness, cash flow trends, and potential economic shifts.

Key Facts

  • Represents total physical currency outside Federal Reserve and bank vaults
  • Provides insights into cash demand and economic liquidity
  • Updated weekly by the Federal Reserve

FAQs

Q: What does currency in circulation indicate?

A: Currency in circulation shows the total amount of physical cash in the economy, reflecting monetary liquidity and potential consumer spending patterns.

Q: How often is this data updated?

A: The Federal Reserve updates this metric on a weekly basis, providing current snapshots of cash distribution.

Q: Why do economists track currency in circulation?

A: Tracking currency in circulation helps understand money supply, potential inflationary trends, and overall economic activity.

Q: How does this data impact monetary policy?

A: The Federal Reserve uses this information to assess cash demand, adjust monetary strategies, and manage overall economic liquidity.

Q: What are the limitations of this metric?

A: While informative, currency in circulation doesn't capture digital transactions or total money supply, representing only physical cash.

Related News

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Liabilities and Capital: Other Factors Draining Reserve Balances: Currency in Circulation: Week Average [WCURCIR], retrieved from FRED.

Last Checked: 8/1/2025