Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted

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

Latest Value

460.28

Year-over-Year Change

257.74%

Date Range

1/1/1960 - 1/1/2013

Summary

The 'Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted' series measures the U.S. trade balance, which is the difference between exports and imports of goods and services. This key economic indicator provides insight into the nation's international trade dynamics and competitiveness.

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 U.S. trade balance, or net exports, represents the gap between the value of a country's total exports and its total imports. This metric is widely tracked by economists, policymakers, and market analysts to assess economic performance and global trade relationships.

Methodology

The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis based on surveys of international trade transactions.

Historical Context

The trade balance is a key input for broader macroeconomic analysis and policy decisions related to exchange rates, tariffs, and international commercial agreements.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. has run a trade deficit since the 1970s.
  • China is the largest source of the U.S. trade deficit.
  • Services trade has historically run a surplus, offsetting some of the goods trade deficit.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The 'Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted' series tracks the overall U.S. trade balance, which is the difference between the value of exported and imported goods and services.

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

A: The trade balance is a critical macroeconomic indicator that provides insights into a country's international economic competitiveness and relationships. It informs policy decisions around exchange rates, tariffs, and trade agreements.

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 international trade transactions.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: The trade balance is a key input for broader macroeconomic analysis and policy decisions related to exchange rates, tariffs, and international commercial agreements.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: There may be lags in reporting international trade data, and the annual, non-seasonally adjusted nature of this series limits its use for short-term economic analysis.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Balance on Goods and Services, Exports and Imports (BOPXMDA), retrieved from FRED.