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The Global Story

The Global Story

Summary

The US national debt has reached $40 trillion, making interest payments the second largest government expense. Economist Kenneth Rogoff explains that the US dollar has remained strong because it is the world’s main reserve currency, but he believes the dollar’s dominance may be weakening.

Key Facts

  • The US national debt recently hit $40 trillion.
  • Interest payments on this debt are now the government’s second biggest budget cost, after social security.
  • The US dollar is the world’s main reserve currency, meaning many countries hold it for trade and savings.
  • Kenneth Rogoff, a Harvard economist and former IMF chief economist, discussed why the dollar holds this status.
  • Being the reserve currency gives the US benefits such as easier borrowing.
  • Rogoff thinks the dollar’s global dominance is now declining.
  • The National Debt Clock in New York City displays real-time US debt figures.
  • The discussion was part of a World Service episode focusing on the US economy and debt issues.
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