Share of Loans (Assets) Held by the Top 0.1% (99.9th to 100th Wealth Percentiles)
This dataset tracks share of loans (assets) held by the top 0.1% (99.9th to 100th wealth percentiles) over time.
Latest Value
27.50
Year-over-Year Change
-2.14%
Date Range
7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the share of total loans or other financial assets held by the wealthiest 0.1% of U.S. households. It provides insight into wealth concentration and inequality at the top of the income 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
The share of loans and assets held by the top 0.1% of households is a key indicator of wealth concentration and inequality in the U.S. economy. Economists and policymakers use this data to analyze trends in the distribution of financial resources and assess the degree of economic polarization.
Methodology
This metric is calculated based on Federal Reserve survey data on household balance sheets and wealth holdings.
Historical Context
Trends in the top 0.1% wealth share are closely watched by financial markets and used to inform economic and tax policy decisions.
Key Facts
- The top 0.1% of U.S. households held over 20% of total loans and financial assets in 2019.
- Wealth inequality has increased significantly in recent decades, with the top 0.1% share more than doubling since the 1980s.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated wealth disparities, with the top 0.1% increasing their asset share.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the share of total loans, investments, and other financial assets held by the wealthiest 0.1% of U.S. households.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Trends in the top 0.1% wealth share provide important insights into the degree of economic inequality and concentration of financial resources in the U.S.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is based on the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances, which collects detailed information on household balance sheets and wealth holdings.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Measures of wealth concentration are closely watched by policymakers and inform debates around taxation, inequality, and the distribution of economic resources.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances is conducted every three years, so there can be delays in the availability of the most recent data.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Share of Loans (Assets) Held by the Top 0.1% (99.9th to 100th Wealth Percentiles) (WFRBSTP1295), retrieved from FRED.