World Uncertainty Index: Advanced Economies
WUIADVECON • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
101,298.40
Year-over-Year Change
336.17%
Date Range
1/1/1990 - 4/1/2025
Summary
The World Uncertainty Index (WUI) for Advanced Economies measures global economic and policy uncertainty in major developed nations. This data point is widely used by economists and policymakers to assess risk and inform economic forecasting.
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 WUI for Advanced Economies is a quarterly index that tracks policy-related economic uncertainty across 21 developed countries. It is based on text analysis of Economist Intelligence Unit country reports and serves as a comprehensive indicator of uncertainty that can impact investment, consumption, and other economic activities.
Methodology
The WUI is calculated by counting the frequency of the word 'uncertainty' in country-specific reports, scaled by the country's GDP.
Historical Context
The WUI is a valuable input for monetary and fiscal policymakers as they navigate uncertainty and make decisions to promote economic stability.
Key Facts
- The WUI covers 21 developed countries, including the U.S., major EU nations, and Japan.
- High WUI values indicate elevated uncertainty that can dampen investment and economic growth.
- The WUI spiked during major events like the Global Financial Crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The World Uncertainty Index for Advanced Economies measures the level of economic and policy-related uncertainty across major developed countries.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The WUI is a comprehensive indicator of uncertainty that can significantly impact investment, consumption, and other economic activities, making it a valuable tool for economists and policymakers.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The WUI is calculated by counting the frequency of the word 'uncertainty' in Economist Intelligence Unit country reports, scaled by the country's GDP.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The WUI is used by monetary and fiscal policymakers to navigate uncertainty and make decisions to promote economic stability.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The WUI is reported quarterly, with a potential delay of several months before the latest data is available.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, World Uncertainty Index: Advanced Economies (WUIADVECON), retrieved from FRED.