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Business
US National Debt Surpasses $40 Trillion for First Time
✍️ NDTV Top
🗓 20 Aug 2026, 09:52 AM
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The U.S. Treasury announced that the total public debt reached $40.05 trillion at the close of business Tuesday, marking the first time the debt has crossed the $40 trillion threshold.
The United States has crossed the $40 trillion mark for the first time, with total public debt standing at $40.05 trillion at the close of business on Tuesday, according to data released by the Treasury Department on Wednesday.
The milestone reflects years of borrowing to cover budget deficits, pandemic-related spending, and other obligations, pushing the debt-to-GDP ratio higher.
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the debt level underscores the need for fiscal discipline and potential reforms, while analysts note its impact on global financial markets.
The figure is likely to influence interest rates, investor sentiment, and future budgetary decisions, keeping the U.S. as a major borrower in global markets.
The milestone reflects years of borrowing to cover budget deficits, pandemic-related spending, and other obligations, pushing the debt-to-GDP ratio higher.
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the debt level underscores the need for fiscal discipline and potential reforms, while analysts note its impact on global financial markets.
The figure is likely to influence interest rates, investor sentiment, and future budgetary decisions, keeping the U.S. as a major borrower in global markets.