Number: RL31220
Title: The Balance of Payments: Meaning and Significance
Authors: Gary J. Wells, Visiting Fellow, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: This report provides a discussion of the U.S. balance of payments (BOP). The BOP is a systematic accounting of the U.S.'s international transactions for a specified period of time, typically a quarter or a year. It is an economic indicator that is followed closely by those concerned with international trade and financial flows.
Pages: 18
Date: April 30, 2003