Balance on services
IEABCS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
75,362.00
Year-over-Year Change
21.76%
Date Range
1/1/1999 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The 'Balance on services' tracks the difference between U.S. exports and imports of services. It is a key indicator of the nation's international trade position 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 'Balance on services' represents the net trade balance for the services sector, which includes categories like travel, transportation, financial services, and intellectual property. This metric provides insight into the U.S. services trade position and is closely watched by economists and policymakers.
Methodology
The data is collected by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis through surveys of businesses and other sources.
Historical Context
The services trade balance is an important factor in assessing the overall U.S. trade position and competitiveness.
Key Facts
- The U.S. has run a surplus in services trade since the 1970s.
- Services account for over 60% of U.S. GDP.
- The services trade surplus helps offset the U.S. goods trade deficit.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The 'Balance on services' tracks the difference between U.S. exports and imports of services, providing insight into the nation's international trade position in the services sector.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The services trade balance is a key indicator of U.S. competitiveness and an important factor in assessing the overall trade position, making it closely watched by economists and policymakers.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis through surveys of businesses and other sources.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The services trade balance is used by policymakers and analysts to evaluate the U.S. trade position and competitiveness, which can inform trade negotiations and other economic policies.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The 'Balance on services' data is published monthly by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, with a typical 2-month delay between the reference period and the release.
Related Trends
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Balance on services (IEABCS), retrieved from FRED.