Manufacturing Sector: Capital Share

MPU9900671 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

0.29

Year-over-Year Change

20.92%

Date Range

1/1/1987 - 1/1/2023

Summary

The Manufacturing Sector: Capital Share measures the share of total manufacturing output that can be attributed to capital inputs. This metric provides insights into the capital-labor ratio and productivity within the manufacturing industry.

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 Capital Share represents the portion of total manufacturing value-added that is generated by capital investments rather than labor. Economists use this indicator to analyze shifts in the relative contributions of capital and labor to manufacturing output over time.

Methodology

The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics using production data and capital stock estimates.

Historical Context

This metric is closely watched by policymakers and analysts for its implications on manufacturing competitiveness and the capital intensity of production.

Key Facts

  • The capital share has increased from 36% in 1987 to 44% in 2021.
  • Higher capital share indicates greater mechanization and automation in manufacturing.
  • The capital share tends to rise during periods of rapid technological change.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Manufacturing Sector: Capital Share measures the proportion of total manufacturing output that is attributable to capital inputs rather than labor.

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

A: This metric provides insights into the capital intensity and productivity dynamics within the manufacturing industry, which is crucial for understanding competitiveness and technological change.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics using production data and capital stock estimates.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and analysts closely monitor the capital share to gauge manufacturing competitiveness and the impact of technological change on the capital-labor ratio.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is published quarterly with a typical 2-3 month lag. There may be revisions to historical data as new information becomes available.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Manufacturing Sector: Capital Share (MPU9900671), retrieved from FRED.