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America's $40 trillion debt
US government debt has topped $40 trillion for the first time. What does the milestone mean for the world’s biggest economy?
US government debt has topped $40 trillion for the first time, raising fresh questions about America’s finances and the cost of borrowing.
We also look at a new trade deal between Switzerland and China.
And the workplace behaviours most likely to land employees in trouble with their bosses.
(Photo:A screen displays the total U.S. National Debt, which surpassed $40 trillion for the first time according to the Treasury Department, in New York City, U.S., August 19, 2026. Credit: REUTERS/Brendan McDermid)
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Thu 20 Aug 2026
22:32GMT
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