Core Viewpoint - Fitch Ratings unexpectedly downgraded the U.S. credit rating from "AAA" to "AA", raising concerns in global financial markets about the stability of the U.S. economy and its long-term fiscal health [1][10]. Economic Factors - The downgrade is attributed to the rising fiscal deficit and national debt, which have exceeded the country's GDP, posing significant challenges to the stability and debt repayment capacity of the U.S. government [5][12]. - Political polarization and policy uncertainty have further complicated economic management, hindering coherent economic policies and potentially exacerbating fiscal deficits [6][10]. Global Economic Context - Global economic volatility, including trade tensions and geopolitical conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war, poses additional risks to the U.S. economy and fiscal situation [8][10]. Market Reactions - Following the downgrade, U.S. stock markets experienced significant declines, and there was a notable lack of interest in a recent issuance of over $90 billion in U.S. Treasury bonds, indicating waning investor confidence [12][14]. - Countries, particularly China, have begun to sell off U.S. Treasury bonds, which could increase borrowing costs for the U.S. government and signal a shift in global investment strategies [17][21].