Total Liabilities Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles
This dataset tracks total liabilities held by the 50th to 90th wealth percentiles over time.
Latest Value
8647712.00
Year-over-Year Change
9.69%
Date Range
7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The 'Total Liabilities Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles' measures the aggregate debt held by U.S. households in the 50th to 90th percentiles of wealth distribution. This metric provides insight into the financial health and debt burden of the middle class.
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 Federal Reserve data series tracks the total liabilities, such as mortgages, auto loans, and credit card balances, held by households in the 50th to 90th percentiles of the U.S. wealth distribution. It offers an indicator of the debt levels and financial leverage of the middle-income population.
Methodology
The data is collected through the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances, a comprehensive household finance survey conducted every three years.
Historical Context
Economists and policymakers monitor this metric to assess the financial stability and debt dynamics of the middle class, which can have implications for consumer spending, credit markets, and the broader economy.
Key Facts
- The 50th to 90th wealth percentiles hold over 70% of total U.S. household liabilities.
- Household debt levels for the middle class have increased by 50% since the 1990s.
- Rising debt burdens can constrain middle-class consumption and investment.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This data series tracks the total liabilities, such as mortgages, auto loans, and credit card balances, held by U.S. households in the 50th to 90th percentiles of the wealth distribution.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Monitoring the debt levels of the middle class provides insight into the financial health and stability of a large segment of the population, which can have broader implications for consumer spending, credit markets, and the overall economy.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances, a comprehensive household finance survey conducted every three years.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Economists and policymakers analyze this metric to assess the financial stability and debt dynamics of the middle class, which can inform decisions related to consumer protection, credit regulations, and macroeconomic policies.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Survey of Consumer Finances is conducted every three years, so there is a delay in the availability of this data. Additionally, the survey relies on self-reported household information, which may have some inherent limitations.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Total Liabilities Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles (WFRBLN40073), retrieved from FRED.