Share of Corporate and Foreign Bonds Held by the Bottom 50% (1st to 50th Wealth Percentiles)
WFRBSB50199 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
0.40
Year-over-Year Change
-33.33%
Date Range
7/1/1989 - 7/1/2024
Summary
This economic trend measures the share of corporate and foreign bonds held by individuals in the bottom 50% of the wealth distribution in the United States. It provides insights into the wealth and asset ownership patterns of lower-income households.
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 Share of Corporate and Foreign Bonds Held by the Bottom 50% (1st to 50th Wealth Percentiles) is an important indicator of wealth inequality and financial inclusion. It tracks the percentage of these bond assets owned by households in the lower half of the wealth spectrum, offering a window into the asset portfolios of less affluent Americans.
Methodology
The data is collected and calculated by the Federal Reserve based on survey responses and other financial records.
Historical Context
This trend is closely watched by policymakers, economists, and market analysts to assess the distribution of wealth and financial market participation.
Key Facts
- The bottom 50% of U.S. households own only a small fraction of corporate and foreign bonds.
- Wealth inequality has increased in recent decades, with the top wealth groups holding a greater share of financial assets.
- Improving financial inclusion and asset ownership among lower-income households is a key policy goal.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the share of corporate and foreign bonds held by individuals in the bottom 50% of the wealth distribution in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This trend provides insights into wealth inequality and financial inclusion, as it indicates the degree to which lower-income households participate in bond markets and own financial assets.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected and calculated by the Federal Reserve based on survey responses and other financial records.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: This trend is closely watched by policymakers, economists, and market analysts to assess the distribution of wealth and financial market participation, which informs policies aimed at promoting financial inclusion and reducing wealth inequality.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published regularly by the Federal Reserve, but there may be some delays in reporting due to the complex nature of collecting and aggregating household wealth and asset ownership information.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Share of Corporate and Foreign Bonds Held by the Bottom 50% (1st to 50th Wealth Percentiles) (WFRBSB50199), retrieved from FRED.