Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted
BOPOFA • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-0.32
Year-over-Year Change
-53.16%
Date Range
1/1/1961 - 1/1/2013
Summary
The Balance on Goods, Services, and Income (BOPOFA) measures the difference between the value of exports and imports of goods, services, and investment income for the United States. It is a key indicator of the nation's trade position and international economic standing.
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 BOPOFA series tracks the overall U.S. trade balance, providing insights into the country's economic competitiveness and relationships with trading partners. Economists and policymakers use this data to assess the health of the U.S. economy and inform decisions on trade, fiscal, and monetary policies.
Methodology
The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis based on surveys and administrative records.
Historical Context
The BOPOFA series is used by the Federal Reserve, Congress, and other institutions to monitor the U.S. trade position and its implications for the broader economy.
Key Facts
- The U.S. trade deficit was $676.7 billion in 2021.
- Exports of goods and services totaled $2.5 trillion in 2021.
- Imports of goods and services totaled $3.2 trillion in 2021.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The BOPOFA series measures the difference between the value of U.S. exports and imports of goods, services, and investment income, providing a comprehensive view of the nation's trade position.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The BOPOFA data is crucial for understanding the U.S. economy's international competitiveness and relationships with trading partners, which informs policymaking and investment decisions.
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 and administrative records.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The BOPOFA series is used by the Federal Reserve, Congress, and other institutions to monitor the U.S. trade position and its implications for the broader economy, informing decisions on trade, fiscal, and monetary policies.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The BOPOFA data is published monthly with a lag of approximately two to three months.
Related Trends
US Acquisition of Direct Investment Assets: Debt Instruments
IEAADIDI
US Acquisition of Other Investment Assets: Trade credit and advances
IEAAOIT
US Incurrence of Other Investment Liabilities: Trade credit and advances
IEAIOIT
US Acquisition of Reserve Assets: Monetary gold
IEAARM
US Incurrence of Portfolio Investment Liabilities
IEAIPI
US Incurrence of Direct Investment Liabilities
IEAIDIA
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Balance on Goods, Services, and Income (BOPOFA), retrieved from FRED.