Prominent economists have issued a dire warning about the state of America’s debt if left unchecked. Here’s the full story.
National Debt’s Dire Trajectory
The Government is amassing too much debt, according to experts from the Federal Reserve, JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and Blackrock – to name but a few.
The Economic Toll of $34 Trillion in Debt
These guys all attest that the national debt, which is currently sitting at $34 trillion, is becoming a severe issue.
The Future in Numbers
They’re worried that the debt will damage the economy and lead to stagnant wages. They also think that the ever-increasing debt will leave the U.S. unable to borrow from big banks in the future, which could possibly lead to a massive financial crisis.
Predicting a $141.1 Trillion National Debt
According to a recent report from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) – an independent office that analyses federal expenses for Congress – by 2054, the national debt will be sitting at $141.1 trillion.
From GDP to Debt
Currently, the national debt is equivalent to 99% of America’s GDP (Gross domestic product – essentially the amount of money America makes in a year), but by 2054, the report states it will be worth 166%.
Breaking Records
It’s predicted to overtake the record of 106% of GDP set during World War 2 in 2028.
Economic Forecasts
One economist stated that if left unchecked, “Its consequences will be severe and leave lasting – probably irreversible – scars on our economy and society.”
Stagnant Wages and Borrowing Challenges Ahead?
According to the CBO’s report, mounting debt will “slow economic growth, push up interest payments to foreign holders of U.S. debt, and pose significant risks to the fiscal and economic outlook.”
The CBO’s Stark Warning
They added a warning for future governments too, “it could also cause lawmakers to feel more constrained in their policy choices” which could then “undermine the international geopolitical role of the United States.”
The Cost of Debt
The CBO is greatly worried that another financial crisis, akin to 2007-2008, “could erode confidence in the U.S. dollar as the dominant international reserve currency.”
The Geopolitical Cost of Debt
Losing its position on the global financial stage would be hazardous for America and could cause widespread issues for millions of citizens.
GAO’s Echoing Alarm
Another report released last month by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) doesn’t offer any reassurance.
According to GAO, “The federal government faces an unsustainable long-term fiscal path that poses serious economic, security, and social challenges if not addressed.”
Doubling Down on Debt
Their estimates are similar to that of the CBO, but they found that national debt would “grow more than twice as fast as the economy over a 30-year period, reaching 200 percent of GDP by 2050.”
The Need for Difficult Decisions
The GAO argues that “Congress and the administration will need to make difficult budgetary and policy decisions to address the key drivers of federal debt and change the government’s fiscal path.”
A Roadmap to Fiscal Responsibility
According to the GAO, smart policies from the Government would make the national debt grow at a similar rate to the economy – or slower in the best circumstances. They suggest that the Government: Utilize fiscal rules and targets to manage spending and revenue, controlling debt effectively. Consider various strategies for addressing the debt ceiling. Analyze both spending and income to comprehend the factors contributing to the budget deficit.
The Medicare and Social Security Time Bomb
The government must also address the imminent funding shortfalls in Medicare and Social Security, as their trust funds are approaching depletion and seek methods to enhance financial responsibility without necessitating significant policy reforms.
Growth vs. Austerity
Increasing the economy’s growth or cutting spending are seen as the two best options for solving the debt issue; however, these are tough to implement as they’re not instant fixes.
Optimistic Outlooks
Despite these warnings, some economists are optimistic that America can solve its debt issues.
Investing in Growth to Counter Debt
They argue that more spending by the Government leads to higher productivity and an increase in GDP.
Economist Brett House explained, “Public debt is justified if it is invested in productivity-enhancing measures that will ensure the economy generates growth that’s required to finance that debt.”
The Deficit Debate
Other economists echo that view, with one explaining that while the national debt is extensive, as long as the yearly deficit doesn’t grow in size, there shouldn’t be any worries about a financial crisis.
Strategic Adjustments
These experts suggest that a strategic adjustment of approximately $400 billion spread over several years could effectively address the escalating debt problem.
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The post $34 Trillion and Counting: Experts Caution on Dire Economic Consequences first appeared on From Frugal to Free.
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The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional financial advice.
