Earlier this morning, credit ratings agency Moody’s moved one step closer to downgrading the United States’ Aaa rating when it announced the country’s credit rating is under review. The move ramps up pressure on the White House and Congress to reach a deal on raising the nation’s $14.3 trillion debt limit before August 2. Mark Zandi, chief economist for Moody’s Analytics, explains what will happen if the U.S. loses its Aaa credit rating. He says that lawmakers need to reach a deal and increase the debt threshold in order to avoid worldwide financial calamity.
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!