Share of Loans (Liabilities) Held by the Top 0.1% (99.9th to 100th Wealth Percentiles)

WFRBSTP1296 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

1.00

Year-over-Year Change

0.00%

Date Range

7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025

Summary

This economic trend measures the share of total loan liabilities held by the wealthiest 0.1% of U.S. households. It provides insights into wealth concentration and financial risk exposure 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 held by the top 0.1% of households is an important indicator of wealth inequality and the financial system's vulnerability to shocks originating from high-net-worth individuals. It highlights the degree to which the most affluent segment of the population is leveraged.

Methodology

The data is calculated by the Federal Reserve using household balance sheet and net worth survey data.

Historical Context

Policymakers and analysts monitor this trend to assess financial stability and the potential systemic risks posed by highly leveraged wealthy households.

Key Facts

  • The top 0.1% of households held over 30% of total U.S. loan liabilities in 2019.
  • Loan liabilities held by the top 0.1% have more than doubled since the 1980s.
  • High wealth concentration increases the financial system's vulnerability to shocks.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the share of total loan liabilities held by the wealthiest 0.1% of U.S. households, providing insights into wealth concentration and financial risk exposure at the top of the income distribution.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This trend is relevant for policymakers and analysts to assess financial stability and the potential systemic risks posed by highly leveraged wealthy households.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is calculated by the Federal Reserve using household balance sheet and net worth survey data.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and analysts monitor this trend to assess financial stability and the potential systemic risks posed by highly leveraged wealthy households.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is subject to the availability and frequency of the underlying household surveys used by the Federal Reserve.

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Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Share of Loans (Liabilities) Held by the Top 0.1% (99.9th to 100th Wealth Percentiles) (WFRBSTP1296), retrieved from FRED.