Ray Dalio Warns US Could 'Go Broke' As Debt Soars, Urges Action To Avert Crisis

Wesley ParkTuesday, Jan 14, 2025 12:02 am ET
6min read


Ray Dalio, the founder of the world's largest hedge fund, Bridgewater Associates, has issued a stark warning about the United States' mounting debt problem. In a recent post on X, Dalio expressed his concern that the US could "go broke" if the government debt situation is not addressed promptly. With the US debt surging past $36 trillion and interest payments reaching unprecedented levels, Dalio believes that the US is at risk of a debt crisis that could have severe consequences for the economy and global financial stability.



Dalio's warning comes as the US government's debt burden continues to grow, with the Treasury Department estimating the total debt at $34.6 trillion, surpassing the size of the US economy. The high and rising level of US government debt has raised concerns among financial experts, including Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Dimon has urged the US government to focus on reducing its budget deficit before financial markets force it to, while the IMF has warned that the high and rising level of US government debt risks driving up borrowing costs around the world and undermining global financial stability.



The mounting debt has also raised concerns about the dollar's status as the world's primary reserve currency. Dalio has suggested that while debt crises can be managed through proper restructuring and monetary policy, they require a careful balance between deflationary measures (debt restructuring) and inflationary approaches (money creation). He emphasized the importance of spreading debt reduction over time rather than attempting dramatic short-term fixes.



The chorus of voices warning about the dangers of record US government debt is growing louder, with Dalio's warning serving as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of inaction. As the US debt burden continues to grow, it is crucial for the government to address its fiscal deficit issues and manage its debt responsibly to avoid a full-blown debt crisis. By taking proactive measures to reduce the deficit and manage the debt, the US can prevent a potential debt crisis and ensure the long-term stability of the economy and global financial markets.