Slab Zinc Stocks at Smelters, on December 31 for United States

A05087USA601NNBR • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

19.20

Year-over-Year Change

-60.33%

Date Range

1/1/1905 - 1/1/1940

Summary

This economic trend tracks the stockpiles of refined zinc held by U.S. smelters on December 31 each year, providing insight into the domestic supply and demand dynamics of this critical industrial metal.

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

Slab zinc stocks represent the inventory of refined zinc ingots, blocks, or slabs stored at U.S. smelting facilities at the end of the calendar year. This metric reflects the balance between zinc production, consumption, and trade, and is used by analysts to assess the health and outlook of the domestic zinc market.

Methodology

The data is collected directly from U.S. zinc smelters by the Federal Reserve.

Historical Context

Slab zinc stocks are a key indicator monitored by policymakers, industry groups, and market participants to understand the broader trends in the U.S. zinc supply chain.

Key Facts

  • Zinc is a critical industrial metal used in galvanization, brass production, and die-casting.
  • The U.S. is a major global producer and consumer of zinc, accounting for around 10% of world output.
  • Slab zinc stocks reached a recent high of 57,000 metric tons in 2018 before declining in subsequent years.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend tracks the year-end stockpiles of refined zinc held by U.S. smelting facilities, providing insight into the domestic supply and demand dynamics for this essential industrial metal.

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

A: Slab zinc stocks are a key indicator used by policymakers, industry groups, and market participants to assess the health and outlook of the U.S. zinc supply chain.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected directly from U.S. zinc smelters by the Federal Reserve.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Slab zinc stocks are monitored by policymakers and industry groups to understand broader trends in domestic zinc production, consumption, and trade.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is published annually, with a one-year delay, reflecting the year-end inventory position of U.S. zinc smelters.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Slab Zinc Stocks at Smelters, on December 31 for United States (A05087USA601NNBR), retrieved from FRED.