Share of Financial Assets Held by the Bottom 50% (1st to 50th Wealth Percentiles)
This dataset tracks share of financial assets held by the bottom 50% (1st to 50th wealth percentiles) over time.
Latest Value
2.60
Year-over-Year Change
0.00%
Date Range
7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The 'Share of Financial Assets Held by the Bottom 50% (1st to 50th Wealth Percentiles)' measures the percentage of total U.S. household financial assets owned by the bottom half of the wealth distribution.
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 trend tracks the wealth inequality within the U.S. by looking at the share of financial assets held by the least wealthy half of households. It provides insight into the concentration of wealth and how it has changed over time.
Methodology
The data is calculated by the Federal Reserve based on the Survey of Consumer Finances.
Historical Context
This metric is closely watched by policymakers and economists to assess economic inequality and inform decisions on taxation, social programs, and other policies.
Key Facts
- The bottom 50% of U.S. households owned just 2.1% of total financial assets in 2019.
- This share has declined from over 3.6% in the late 1980s, indicating rising wealth concentration.
- The top 1% of households owned over 31% of total U.S. financial assets in 2019.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the percentage of total U.S. household financial assets owned by the bottom 50% of households by wealth.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric provides insight into wealth inequality and the concentration of financial assets, which is a key concern for policymakers and economists.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is calculated by the Federal Reserve based on the Survey of Consumer Finances.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: This metric is closely watched by policymakers and economists to assess economic inequality and inform decisions on taxation, social programs, and other policies.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published annually with a lag, so the most recent year may not be immediately available.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Share of Financial Assets Held by the Bottom 50% (1st to 50th Wealth Percentiles) (WFRBSB50193), retrieved from FRED.