Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted
BOPCATA • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-0.41
Year-over-Year Change
-103.12%
Date Range
1/1/1989 - 1/1/2013
Summary
The Balance on Current Account in Goods, Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted (BOPCATA) measures the net trade balance in goods between the United States and its trading partners. This metric is a key indicator of the U.S. economy's trade position and performance.
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 Balance on Current Account in Goods tracks the difference between the value of U.S. exports and imports of physical goods, excluding services. It is a component of the broader Current Account, which measures the total trade balance including both goods and services.
Methodology
The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis based on customs declarations and surveys of U.S. companies.
Historical Context
Economists and policymakers monitor the Current Account balance to assess the strength of the U.S. economy and the nation's trade competitiveness.
Key Facts
- The U.S. has run a deficit in the Balance on Current Account in Goods since the 1970s.
- In 2021, the annual BOPCATA deficit was $1.03 trillion.
- Goods make up around three-quarters of the total U.S. Current Account balance.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Balance on Current Account in Goods, Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted (BOPCATA) measures the net trade balance in physical goods between the U.S. and its trading partners.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The BOPCATA is a key indicator of the U.S. economy's trade performance and competitiveness, which is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and market analysts.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis based on customs declarations and surveys of U.S. companies.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The BOPCATA and broader Current Account balance are used by economists and policymakers to assess the strength of the U.S. economy and inform trade, fiscal, and monetary policies.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The BOPCATA data is released on a quarterly basis with a lag of several months. Users should be aware of potential revisions to historical data.
Related Trends
Citation
U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Balance on Current Account in Goods, Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted (BOPCATA), retrieved from FRED.