Fed’s Operating Losses Grew to Record $114.3 Billion in 2023

In 2023, the Federal Reserve reported an unprecedented operating loss of $114.3 billion, halting its payments to the Treasury due to high interest rates. The Fed’s interest expenses surged to $281.1 billion, driven by costs related to reverse repo operations, while its income from assets was $163.8 billion. Typically, profits from the Fed’s securities go to the Treasury, reducing the federal deficit. The shortfall since late 2022 led to a deferred asset for the Treasury, increasing to $133.3 billion, yet affecting neither the federal budget nor monetary policy strategies.