Bill Gross, renowned investor and the “Bond King,” cautions against mounting US debt and the repercussions of surging interest expenses

Jeffrey Gundlach, often referred to as the “Bond King,” has once again sounded the alarm on mounting US debt and the implications of rising interest costs. Gundlach, who is the CEO of DoubleLine Capital and has a proven track record in bond investing, recently shared his concerns during a webcast for his firm’s clients.

Gundlach emphasizes that the US debt has been growing at an alarming pace over the past few years, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only accelerated this trajectory. The federal debt now exceeds $28 trillion, with the Congressional Budget Office projecting it to reach 202% of GDP by 2051 if current policies continue. Gundlach argues that such levels of debt are unsustainable and pose a significant risk to the economy.

A key concern highlighted by Gundlach is the rising interest costs associated with the mounting debt. With interest rates historically low, the US has been able to service its debt relatively cheaply. However, Gundlach warns that as rates rise, the burden of interest payments will become increasingly burdensome. He predicts that interest expense could potentially balloon to 20% of the federal budget by 2028, consuming a substantial portion of government revenue.

The implications of higher interest costs are far-reaching. Gundlach suggests that as the government allocates more resources to servicing its debt, there will be less room for critical investments in infrastructure, education, or social programs. Moreover, higher interest rates could crowd out private investment, leading to slower economic growth in the long run.

Gundlach also points out that excessive debt can undermine the US dollar’s status as the global reserve currency. As other countries witness the ever-expanding debt burden, they may lose confidence in the dollar’s stability. This could result in a flight from US bonds and a devaluation of the currency, further complicating the debt situation.

To address these concerns, Gundlach urges policymakers to adopt a disciplined approach to fiscal management. He emphasizes the importance of curbing unnecessary spending, reevaluating entitlement programs, and implementing measures to promote economic growth and job creation. Additionally, he stresses the need to invest in technological advancements, as they offer the potential for long-term economic prosperity.

While Gundlach’s warnings may sound dire, they serve as a reminder of the impending consequences if the US fails to address its mounting debt burden. As one of the most respected voices in the bond market, his insights should not be taken lightly. Government officials and market participants alike would be wise to consider his cautionary words and take proactive steps towards fiscal responsibility to secure the nation’s long-term economic well-being.