BS EDIT: US Debt Downgrade: Why It Matters Globally

By Business StandardPublished On May 21, 2025

A Century-Old Status Lost

Moody’s has joined S&P and Fitch in downgrading US debt

For the first time in over 100 years, the US no longer has a AAA rating

Debt and Deficits Soar

US debt is projected to hit 134% of GDP by 2035

Interest and mandatory spending could reach 78% of the budget

Yields Climb, Risks Rise

30-year US bond yields briefly hit 5%

Higher borrowing costs could tighten global liquidity

Trade Policy Fuels Inflation

Tariffs may push prices up, limiting Fed rate cuts

Result: Sticky inflation and structurally higher yields

Capital Flow Pressure on India

US yields now rival Indian equities and debt

This narrows the investment case for foreign funds

Watch the Rupee, Watch the Flows

India’s current account is stable, but capital flow volatility could trigger currency swings and tighter financial conditions