Core Viewpoint - The relationship between population aging and debt has become a focal point at the Jackson Hole Global Central Bank Conference, highlighting that global aging increases fiscal burdens and expands demand for debt assets, creating a "high debt - low interest rate" equilibrium. However, this equilibrium is fragile and not solely determined by demographic factors, as it also depends on interest rate sensitivity to debt, international capital flows, and political stability [2][4][7]. Group 1: Aging Population and Debt Dynamics - The aging population leads to significant increases in fiscal spending, including rising pension payments and healthcare costs, which contribute to persistent fiscal deficits and an upward trend in government debt [4][5]. - Aging not only raises government fiscal burdens but also expands societal demand for safe, long-term investment tools, such as government bonds, allowing governments to issue large amounts of debt at very low interest rates [5][6]. - The political landscape shifts towards older voters, making it more challenging to implement tax increases or spending cuts, resulting in a tendency for governments to opt for "more borrowing" rather than "spending less" [5][6]. Group 2: Fragility of the Current Equilibrium - Despite the apparent sustainability of the "high debt - low interest rate" equilibrium, its fragility is underscored by factors such as interest rate sensitivity to debt, global capital market demand, and political stability [7][8]. - The estimated Debt Sensitivity to Interest Rate (DSIR) is around 0.5 basis points, suggesting that a significant increase in debt-to-GDP ratios could lead to a more pronounced rise in interest rates, potentially worsening fiscal outlooks [7][8]. - Global demand for U.S. Treasury bonds may not remain constant, as geopolitical tensions and the emergence of alternative reserve currencies could weaken reliance on U.S. debt, exposing vulnerabilities in debt sustainability [8]. Group 3: Long-term Solutions - The long-term solution lies in structural fiscal reforms and productivity enhancements, as the current equilibrium, while providing short-term stability, poses long-term risks [12][14]. - Initiating structural fiscal adjustments can help stabilize market confidence and prevent debt expectations from spiraling out of control, while investments in technology, education, and labor market reforms are essential for boosting productivity [14]. - Future monetary policy may need to navigate complex trade-offs among inflation, employment, and fiscal constraints, with central banks facing greater discretion and associated credibility risks [14].
老龄化的债务幻觉|宏观经济
清华金融评论·2025-09-10 11:16