Fitch Group downgraded its US debt rating on Tuesday from the highest, AAA rating, to AA+, citing “a steady deterioration in standards of governance.”
Fitch Group is a global leader in financial information services.
A downgrade of US debt last happened in 2011, when Standard & Poor’s downgraded the US credit rating from AAA to AA+. That was the first time that the US had been downgraded since 1917. That downgrade led to a decline in stock prices and a rise in interest rates. It also led to a loss of confidence in the US government, which made it more difficult for the government to borrow money.
A downgrade of the US credit rating could have a number of consequences, including:
- Higher interest rates: When the US government borrows money, it does so by issuing Treasury bonds. These bonds are considered to be very safe investments, and as a result, they have a very low interest rate. However, if the US credit rating is downgraded, investors may demand a higher interest rate to compensate for the increased risk. This would mean that the US government would have to pay more to borrow money, which would ultimately lead to higher taxes or cuts to government spending.
- Reduced investment: A downgrade of the US credit rating could also lead to a reduction in investment in the US economy. This is because investors may be less willing to invest in the US if they believe that the government is not good at managing its finances. This could lead to slower economic growth and job losses.
- Increased volatility in financial markets: A downgrade of the US credit rating could also lead to increased volatility in financial markets. This is because investors may become more uncertain about the future of the US economy, and as a result, they may be more likely to sell their investments. This could lead to a decline in stock prices and other assets, which could have a negative impact on the economy.
The consequences of a downgrade of the US credit rating would vary depending on the severity of the downgrade. However, even a small downgrade could have a significant impact on the economy.
