Quarterly, Not Seasonally Adjusted

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

Latest Value

194.70

Year-over-Year Change

8.12%

Date Range

1/1/1960 - 1/1/2014

Summary

The Quarterly, Not Seasonally Adjusted (BOPXRTN) series measures the U.S. balance of payments net transactions, which is a key economic indicator of a country's international economic activity.

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 tracks the flow of goods, services, and capital between a country and the rest of the world. This metric is closely watched by economists and policymakers to assess a nation's trade and financial positions.

Methodology

The data is compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) based on surveys and administrative records.

Historical Context

The balance of payments is used to inform monetary and fiscal policies as well as assess a country's economic performance and competitiveness in global markets.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. has run a persistent trade deficit since the 1970s.
  • Services trade typically runs a surplus while goods trade runs a deficit.
  • The balance of payments must equal zero, with offsetting capital flows.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Quarterly, Not Seasonally Adjusted (BOPXRTN) series measures the U.S. balance of payments, which tracks the flow of goods, services, and capital between the U.S. and the rest of the world.

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

A: The balance of payments is a key indicator of a country's international economic activity and competitiveness. It informs monetary and fiscal policies and is closely watched by economists and policymakers.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) based on surveys and administrative records.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: The balance of payments is used to assess a country's trade and financial positions, which informs monetary and fiscal policies as well as evaluations of economic performance and competitiveness.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The balance of payments data is published quarterly with a delay of several months.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly, Not Seasonally Adjusted (BOPXRTN), retrieved from FRED.