Why it matters who owns U.S. debt
Why it matters who owns U.S. debt  
Podcast: Marketplace All-in-One
Published On: Tue Nov 10 2026
Description: Back in the early 2000s, foreign investors owned the majority of the debt issued by the U.S. government. Since then, the market for U.S. debt has shifted toward domestic investors. Now, foreign investors own just a quarter of all U.S. debt. That shift can have consequences for interest rates during periods of turmoil. We dig in. Also, communities across the country have been banding together to fight data center projects, but many local governments approve them anyway.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace Morning Report is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.