Quarterly, Not Seasonally Adjusted

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

Latest Value

-21.24

Year-over-Year Change

27.89%

Date Range

1/1/1960 - 1/1/2014

Summary

The 'Quarterly, Not Seasonally Adjusted' series measures the balance of payments surplus or deficit for the United States on a quarterly basis. This key economic indicator provides insight into the nation's international trade and financial position.

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 of payments is a statistical record of a country's transactions with the rest of the world, including trade in goods and services, investment income, and transfer payments. Analyzing this data helps economists and policymakers understand the country's economic health and global economic ties.

Methodology

The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis based on surveys and government records.

Historical Context

The balance of payments is closely watched by investors, analysts, and policymakers to assess the overall strength of the U.S. economy and its international competitiveness.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. recorded a $208.5 billion trade deficit in 2022 Q4.
  • The current account deficit was 3.7% of GDP in 2022 Q4.
  • The balance of payments data is released quarterly by the BEA.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The 'Quarterly, Not Seasonally Adjusted' series measures the overall balance between the value of the goods, services, and capital the United States exports and the value of the goods, services, and capital it imports.

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

A: The balance of payments is a crucial indicator of a country's international economic position and competitiveness. Analyzing this data helps inform economic policy, investment decisions, and assessments of a nation's overall economic health.

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 surveys of businesses and government records of international transactions.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and economists closely monitor the balance of payments to assess the country's trade position, the strength of the dollar, and overall macroeconomic conditions. This data informs decisions on trade policy, exchange rate management, and other economic policies.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The balance of payments data is released quarterly by the BEA, with a delay of several weeks after the end of each quarter. There may be revisions to the data as more complete information becomes available.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Balance of Payments Surplus or Deficit (BOPMSVTN), retrieved from FRED.