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IMF: US, China Debt Pose Risks for Global Public Finances

Published: 19th Apr, 2024

Context

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has highlighted the escalating public debt scenarios in the United States and China, which are poised tsignificantly impact global economic stability in the coming years.

Key Highlights of the Report
  • Report Title: Fiscal Monitor
  • The IMF predicts a near doubling of public debt in both the US and China by 2053 under current policies.
  • The fiscal policies of these tweconomic powerhouses hold profound implications for the global economy, posing significant risks for fiscal projections worldwide.
  • Increased interest rates in the US could exacerbate economic challenges for other nations by elevating the value of the dollar, consequently amplifying debt burdens for countries with USD-denominated loans.
  • China's economic slowdown, potentially intensified by fiscal imbalances at local government levels, poses risks tglobal trade, external financing, and investments.
1: Dimension - Impact on Global Financial Stability
  • Escalating Debt Burdens: The projected surge in public debt in the US and China threatens tdestabilize global financial markets, with repercussions for economic growth and stability worldwide.
  • Interest Rate Dynamics: Higher interest rates in the US could trigger ripple effects across the globe, amplifying borrowing costs and impeding economic recovery in other countries.
2: Dimension - Implications for International Trade and Investments
  • Currency Valuation Effects: Strengthening of the US dollar relative tother currencies could render dollar-priced commodities more expensive, affecting trade balances and competitiveness globally.
  • China's Economic Slowdown: A potential downturn in China's economy could disrupt international trade flows and dampen investor confidence, exerting downward pressure on global growth.
3: Dimension - Challenges for Fiscal Policy Governance
  • Election Year Dynamics: With a significant number of countries holding elections this year, fiscal policy faces heightened pressures, potentially leading tlooser fiscal stances and increased expenditure.
  • Risks of Fiscal Slippages: Political preferences for expanded government spending could strain fiscal discipline, exacerbating deficits and debt levels, particularly in election years.

IMF

  • The International Monetary Fund (IMF) works tachieve sustainable growth and prosperity for all of its 190 member countries.
  • The IMF has three critical missions: furthering international monetary cooperation, encouraging the expansion of trade and economic growth, and discouraging policies that would harm prosperity.

Roles

  • POLICY ADVICE
  • FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
  • CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT

SDR

  • The IMF issues an international reserve asset known as Special Drawing Rights, or SDRs,?that can supplement the official reserves of member countries.
  • The SDR itself is not a currency but an asset that holders can exchange for currency when needed.

Mains Practice Question

Q: How descalating public debts in the US and China pose significant risks tglobal economic stability?

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