Japan has by far the world's largest public debt in relation to GDP (of course after Zimbabwe). Almost 200% of GDP. The US is a third of that, at a similar level to the likes of France, Germany and others.
The Japanese, French and Germans have bigger looming problems with pensions and other public liabilities, due to their stagnant and aging populations. The Americans are in much better shape thanks to their growing and younger population.
Moved from the "United States" forum. Original message number: 728
