In part three of our national debt masterclass, we share a simple debt dynamics formula we can monitor to help guide our investment choices. Topics covered include: How much has the national debt grown over the past fifties years, and what are the underlying drivers How the budget deficit, interest rates, and economic growth determine the level and growth in the national debt Under what circumstances will the U.S. default on its debt How should we invest to protect ourselves … [Read more...]

In part two of this series, we explore how households, businesses, and banks can opt out of the national debt scheme. We also examine how central banks and governments monetize debt with quantitative easing. Show Notes Credit and Liquidity Programs and the Balance Sheet: Federal Reserve liabilities—Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System As of and for the Years Ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 and Independent Auditors’ Report—The United States Federal Reserve … [Read more...]

In part one of this three-part series, we consider why a country that issues debt in its own currency can't default unless it chooses to. We also explore how central banks can control interest rates on the national debt and whether it is possible for government borrowing to crowd out the private sector. Show Notes Money In The Modern Economy: An Introduction—Bank of England – Q1 2014 Money Creation In The Modern Economy—Bank of England – Q1 2014 Congressional Budget Office … [Read more...]