Share of Total Liabilities Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles
This dataset tracks share of total liabilities held by the 50th to 90th wealth percentiles over time.
Latest Value
44.60
Year-over-Year Change
0.68%
Date Range
7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The 'Share of Total Liabilities Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles' measures the portion of total household debt owned by middle-class Americans. This key economic indicator provides insights into wealth distribution and financial vulnerability.
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 proportion of total U.S. household liabilities held by those in the 50th to 90th percentiles of wealth. It offers a window into the debt burdens and financial positions of the middle class, a crucial segment for understanding economic stability and consumer trends.
Methodology
The data is calculated based on the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts use this metric to assess the financial health and resilience of American households.
Key Facts
- This measure has declined from over 70% in the 1980s to around 60% today.
- Middle-class households hold a significant portion of total U.S. debt.
- Tracking this metric is crucial for understanding consumer financial vulnerability.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This data series tracks the share of total U.S. household liabilities held by those in the 50th to 90th percentiles of wealth, providing insights into the debt burdens of the middle class.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric is important for understanding wealth distribution, financial stability, and the economic position of middle-class American households.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is calculated based on the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use this metric to assess the financial health and resilience of middle-class households, which are crucial for overall economic stability and consumer trends.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published by the Federal Reserve and may be subject to update delays or limitations inherent in household survey data.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Share of Total Liabilities Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles (WFRBSN40181), retrieved from FRED.