Share of Loans (Assets) Held by the Top 1% (99th to 100th Wealth Percentiles)
This dataset tracks share of loans (assets) held by the top 1% (99th to 100th wealth percentiles) over time.
Latest Value
57.70
Year-over-Year Change
17.04%
Date Range
7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the share of total loans and assets held by the wealthiest 1% of U.S. households. Understanding wealth concentration is crucial for policymakers and analysts studying inequality and financial stability.
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 Loans (Assets) Held by the Top 1%' metric tracks the percentage of total loans and other financial assets controlled by the richest 1% of the U.S. population, by wealth. This provides insight into the concentration of economic power and has implications for inequality, financial regulation, and macroeconomic policies.
Methodology
The data is calculated based on the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances.
Historical Context
This trend is widely used by economists, policymakers, and financial analysts to assess wealth inequality and financial system risks.
Key Facts
- The top 1% held over 50% of total U.S. loans and assets in 2019.
- Wealth concentration has increased significantly since the 1980s.
- High wealth inequality can contribute to financial instability.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the share or percentage of total U.S. loans and financial assets that are held by the wealthiest 1% of households.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Understanding wealth concentration and the share of assets held by the top 1% is crucial for analyzing inequality, financial stability, and the potential impact of economic policies.
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: This trend is widely used by economists, policymakers, and financial analysts to assess wealth inequality and potential risks to the financial system.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is updated periodically by the Federal Reserve, usually with a delay of a few years.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Share of Loans (Assets) Held by the Top 1% (99th to 100th Wealth Percentiles) (WFRBST01119), retrieved from FRED.