Mailbag: Debt Becomes Us

Shah Gilani|September 27, 2024

U.S. government debt stands at more than $35 trillion.

Total household debt clocks in at nearly $18 trillion… or $104,000 per household.

As I said last week… big numbers like can lose all meaning.

As an astute reader asked…

Does the “average” consumer even understand debt anymore? I think there is a mental correlation between the national debt and personal debt. If politicians don’t care about debt – why should I, until of course one’s personal debt actually hits a point that it hurts. – Subscriber Don D.

Don raises some very important points about the relationship between national and personal debt, and the broader implications for the economy.

Most consumers likely don’t understand or think about what we as a nation owe other countries. While they can feel the direct effects of their own debt – like credit card bills or student loans – the national debt feels more abstract.

This disconnect leads to a lack of urgency or concern about larger fiscal issues.

When politicians prioritize spending without dealing with debt, it sends a signal that it’s ok to ignore fiscal responsibility everywhere else.

But when debt does reach a breaking point – it could lead to significant consequences for everyone, including job losses and a reduction in public services.

We’re headed there already…

The U.S. Treasury must issue more debt to refinance its maturing debt and fund ongoing government operations. The Fed is also trying to reduce its balance sheet, which holds $7.12 trillion of assets.

Someone needs to buy that debt… and rates need to stay high for that debt to be attractive.

And that makes it more expensive for individuals and businesses to secure loans or mortgages.

High interest rates can slow down economic growth, as both consumers and businesses cut back on spending and investment.

Debt levels are manageable now, partly because the Treasury’s been dramatically increasing its issuance of short-term, low interest T-Bills to affect refinancings.

But the long-term sustainability remains in question, especially with rising commitments for Social Security and Medicare.

Ultimately, while the average consumer might not connect their financial situation with national fiscal health, the two are connected.

Until there’s a broader understanding and education around these issues, people will remain complacent… which could lead to more severe repercussions down the line.

The challenge lies in fostering awareness and encouraging a culture of fiscal responsibility, both at the personal and national levels, to mitigate the risks associated with escalating debt.

Good luck with that.