Global borrowing costs hit fresh highs on oil, AI and inflation
Long-term borrowing costs across some of the word's biggest economies hit fresh highs because of concerns over inflation, government debt levels and spending on Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Borrowing costs across major economies have reached record highs, driven by concerns over inflation, government debt levels, and spending on Artificial Intelligence (AI), according to recent data. The interest rate on US borrowing over 30 years climbed to 5.33%, the highest since June 2007, while the UK's long-term debt reached 5.85%.
Similar increases were observed in Germany and Japan. Bond yields, which affect the borrowing costs consumers pay on mortgages, car loans, and credit cards, have surged as investors anticipate potential inflation spikes. Oil prices pushed above $90 per barrel due to growing tensions in the Middle East, further fueling inflation fears.
John Canavan, lead analyst at Oxford Economics, attributes the rise in borrowing costs to inflation risks, high government debt, and uncertainties surrounding AI investments. This could lead to higher mortgage rates and borrowing costs for consumers. Companies may also pass on higher expenses to customers, exacerbating inflation.
The UK's Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, has reassured bond markets of his commitment to existing fiscal rules, despite concerns over the government's spending plans. Bond investors are demanding higher returns due to geopolitical uncertainties, inflation fears, and unsustainable fiscal positions in countries like the US, UK, France, Italy, and Japan.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
