US 10-year Treasury yields have reached their highest level since 2002, while Japanese counterparts are at three-decade peaks, according to circulating social media posts. This is not a localized phenomenon: French, Spanish, German, Italian, and UK bonds are trending similarly. The discussion, initiated by TradingView charts, quickly shifts to a more uncomfortable question: is this the prelude to a debt crisis or just another volatility episode that will resolve itself, as in previous Octobers?
10-Year Bond Yields at Two-Decade Highs
The conversation stems from data spreading on social networks: US 10-year, 20-year, and 30-year Treasury yields are at their highest levels since 2002. In Japan, the 10-year government bond yield has hit a 30-year high, with 20- and 30-year yields peaking since 1999. UK and French bonds trinc closely. "The crash is global," summarizes one widely shared message. Comparisons to the previous crisis arise immediately: how are Portugal and Greece, the "weak links" of that era? The question remains unanswered in the available material.
Why Are Global Bond Yields Rising?
Rising yields equate to falling bond prices. Explanations point to a mix of factors: weaker-than-expected US employment data reducing the likelihood of further rate hikes, and debt buybacks reportedly performing better than the previous week. Consequently, the "crash" is delayed but not eliminated. Some argue that ECB monetary policy, using quantitative easing as a last resort, will contain the turmoil. Others warn that returning to zero rates amidst current inflation could worsen instability.
Japan and the Yen: Another Face of Debt Crisis
The Japanese case warrants special attention. Japanese government bonds yield rises by 2.4% while the yen depreciates against the dollar. "Japan is crumbling softly," one message states. The combination of rising yields and falling currency is the classic recipe for a sovereign debt crisis. In Europe, focus shifts to French bonds, with sharp increases some attribute to ECB liquidity injections. German, Italian, and Spanish bonds trinc similar paths, albeit with varying intensity.
IBEX and Equities: Money Seeking Refuge
The discussion moves to stock markets. Italian and US indices open lower, and Spain’s IBEX is not having a "glorious day." The paradox noted is that stocks rise in some cases because fiat money "is worthless" and must find a home. However, participants predict an eventual "historic blowup." The warning concludes with a scenario of global power outages: "Will we have electricity for our PCs and routers?" asks one user sarcastically.
Is This the Expected Debt Crisis?
The prevailing sentiment is that this time is different. "I always thought the major crisis would be driven by debt, and I believe I was right," writes one participant. Japan, the US, Europe: the West is collapsing, it is concluded. Debt threatens "the system's core," and existing solutions are inadequate. Conversely, skeptics recall that previous October scares also peaked without systemic failure. "Next October we’ll be here again laughing," predicts one message.
Analysis stalls on a key point: whether this is the "MAJOR CRASH" or merely another warning. Data indicates unprecedented global tension in debt markets. Yet, the question of whether it will lead to a systemic crisis or remain a scare remains unanswered. Meanwhile, bond yields continue to climb.
Summary of a discussion on Burbuja.info - Foro de economía, actualidad y política., translated from Spanish and reviewed before publication.
Read the full discussion (230 replies).
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