Total Liabilities Held by the 90th to 99th Wealth Percentiles

WFRBLN09046 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

3,853,255.00

Year-over-Year Change

14.59%

Date Range

7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025

Summary

This economic trend measures the total liabilities held by households in the 90th to 99th wealth percentiles in the United States. Understanding this metric is crucial for economists and policymakers to assess wealth inequality and household financial health.

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 'Total Liabilities Held by the 90th to 99th Wealth Percentiles' trend provides insight into the debt levels of upper-middle and high-wealth households. This data point is used to analyze the financial vulnerabilities and leverage of affluent Americans, which has important implications for economic stability and policy decisions.

Methodology

The Federal Reserve collects this data through its Survey of Consumer Finances.

Historical Context

Analysts use this metric to contextualize trends in wealth distribution, consumer spending, and financial risk.

Key Facts

  • The 90th to 99th wealth percentiles hold over $30 trillion in total liabilities.
  • Liabilities for this group have grown by over 50% in the past two decades.
  • High-wealth households account for a disproportionate share of total U.S. liabilities.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the total liabilities, or debt, held by households in the 90th to 99th wealth percentiles in the United States.

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

A: Understanding the debt levels of affluent households is crucial for analyzing wealth inequality, financial vulnerabilities, and the broader economic implications of household leverage.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The Federal Reserve collects this data through its Survey of Consumer Finances.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Analysts and policymakers use this metric to contextualize trends in wealth distribution, consumer spending, and financial risk, which informs policy decisions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The Survey of Consumer Finances is conducted every three years, so there may be a delay in data availability.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Total Liabilities Held by the 90th to 99th Wealth Percentiles (WFRBLN09046), retrieved from FRED.