The Institute of International Finance (IIF) released its quarterly Global Debt Monitor report, showing that global debt reached a record high of USD353 trillion as of end-March, up USD4.4 trillion QoQ, marking the fastest increase since mid-last year and the fifth consecutive quarterly rise. In terms of key debt ratios, global debt accounted for 305% of world economic output, broadly in line with levels seen since 2023.The report noted that the increase in debt was mainly driven by US government borrowing. It also highlighted stronger international demand for Japanese and European government bonds, while demand for US Treasuries remained broadly stable, indicating signs of reduced reliance on US Treasuries. However, supported by artificial intelligence-related issuance and strong overseas capital inflows, the US corporate bond market has remained buoyant.Related NewsUnemployment Rate for April in China is 5.2%, lower than the previous value of 5.4%. The forecast was 5.3%.The organization added that debt among Chinas non-financial corporate borrowers, mainly state-owned enterprises, accelerated sharply in 1Q26, with growth significantly outpacing that of the Chinese government. In addition, debt in mature markets edged down slightly, while debt levels in emerging markets excluding China rose moderately to a record high of USD36.8 trillion. (fc/j)
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