Global Debt Surpasses $365 Trillion Amid Record Rates

Global debt has reached an all-time high, surpassing the $365 trillion mark. This figure accounts for approximately 310% of global GDP, setting an absolute record in observation history.

Parallel to the growing debt burden, the cost of servicing these obligations worldwide is rising sharply. Investors are facing unprecedented yields on government bonds from major economies.

US: Rates at Historic Peaks

• US 5-year Treasury bonds: 5.136% — highest since 2007 (19 years)
• US 10-year Treasury bonds: 5.340% — highest since 2002 (24 years)
• US 20-year Treasury bonds: 5.730% — highest since 2002 (24 years)
• US 30-year Treasury bonds: 5.681% — highest since 2002 (24 years)

Europe and the UK also show significant rate increases. British gilts have posted their strongest results in decades, while German and French bonds have returned to levels seen in the early 2000s.

• UK 5-year gilts: 5.062% — highest since 2008 (18 years)
• UK 10-year gilts: 5.510% — highest since 2007 (19 years)
• UK 30-year gilts: above 6.029% — highest since 1998 (28 years)
• German 10-year bonds: 3.65% — highest since 2009 (17 years)
• French 10-year bonds: 4.963% — highest since 2002 (24 years)

The situation is no less tense in Asian and Australian markets. Japan, traditionally maintaining low rates, is now recording record values for its long-term bonds.

• Japanese 10-year bonds: 3.126% — highest since 1996 (30 years)
• Japanese 30-year bonds: 4.223% — record since issuance in 1999
• Australian 10-year bonds: 5.448% — highest since 2011 (15 years)