Gross Federal Debt
FYGFD • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
32,989.00
Year-over-Year Change
123.44%
Date Range
6/30/1939 - 9/30/2023
Summary
The Gross Federal Debt series measures the total outstanding debt of the U.S. federal government. This key macroeconomic indicator is closely watched by policymakers, investors, and economists to assess the government's fiscal position and sustainability.
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
Gross Federal Debt represents the total amount of money owed by the U.S. government, including public debt held by individuals, institutions, and foreign governments, as well as intragovernmental debt. It is a fundamental measure of the government's financial obligations and a crucial factor in evaluating fiscal policy.
Methodology
The Federal Reserve collects this data from the U.S. Treasury Department's Monthly Statement of the Public Debt.
Historical Context
Trends in Gross Federal Debt are closely monitored by the Federal Reserve, Congressional Budget Office, and financial markets to gauge the government's ability to service its debt obligations.
Key Facts
- Gross Federal Debt reached a record high of over $31 trillion in 2022.
- The debt-to-GDP ratio, a key measure of fiscal sustainability, was over 120% in 2022.
- Interest payments on the federal debt exceeded $475 billion in 2022.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Gross Federal Debt series measures the total outstanding debt owed by the U.S. federal government, including both public debt and intragovernmental debt.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Gross Federal Debt is a crucial macroeconomic indicator used by policymakers, investors, and economists to assess the government's fiscal position, sustainability, and ability to service its debt obligations.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The Federal Reserve collects this data directly from the U.S. Treasury Department's Monthly Statement of the Public Debt.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Trends in Gross Federal Debt are closely monitored by the Federal Reserve, Congressional Budget Office, and financial markets to evaluate the government's fiscal policy and its potential impact on the broader economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Gross Federal Debt data is published monthly with minimal delays, providing timely information on the government's debt levels.
Related Trends
Federal Receipts as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
FYFRGDA188S
Federal Outlays: Interest as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
FYOIGDA188S
Federal Debt Held by Federal Reserve Banks
FDHBFRBN
Means of Financing: Reduction of Operating Cash, Increase (-)
MTSMFROC133FMS
Market Value of Gross Federal Debt
MVGFD027MNFRBDAL
Gross Federal Debt as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
GFDGDPA188S
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Gross Federal Debt (FYGFD), retrieved from FRED.