National debt is a common phenomenon in modern economies, as countries often borrow money to finance their expenditures. However, what may seem counterintuitive is the idea of one country buying another country’s debt. Why would a country invest in the debt of another nation?
In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why a country may choose to buy another country’s debt. From economic considerations and geopolitical factors to financial benefits and risks, there are various complex factors that can influence such a decision.
Understanding why countries engage in this practice can shed light on the intricate dynamics of international finance and diplomacy. So, let’s delve deeper into this intriguing topic and explore the potential motivations behind a country’s decision to buy another country’s debt.
Why Would A Country Buy Another Country’s Debt?
A country may choose to buy another country’s debt for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common:
- Investment: Buying another country’s debt can be a way for investors to earn interest income. Governments or other entities with excess cash may choose to purchase foreign government bonds as part of a diversified investment portfolio.
- Currency management: By buying another country’s debt, a government can influence the exchange rate of its own currency. For example, if a country buys a significant amount of US Treasury bonds, it can increase the demand for US dollars and thereby strengthen the value of the dollar relative to its own currency.
- Diplomacy: Purchasing another country’s debt can be a way for one government to demonstrate support for another. For example, the US government has historically bought debt issued by allied countries to support their economies and promote political stability.
- Strategic advantage: A country may buy another country’s debt as a way to gain leverage or influence over that country. By holding a significant portion of another country’s debt, a government may be able to exert pressure on that country to adopt certain policies or make certain concessions.
- Risk management: Buying another country’s debt can also be a way for a government to diversify its own portfolio and reduce risk. By investing in multiple countries, a government can spread out its exposure to economic and political events that may impact any one country’s debt.
Overall, buying another country’s debt can be a way for governments or other investors to achieve a variety of financial and strategic goals. However, it is important to note that investing in foreign government bonds also carries risks, including currency exchange rate fluctuations, political instability, and default risk.
Economic Considerations
Economic Reasons For A Country To Buy Another Country’s Debt
Diversification is a key principle in investment strategy, and it applies not only to individual investors but also to countries managing their national reserves. One significant economic reason for a country to buy another country’s debt is to diversify its investment portfolio. Here are some points to consider:
- Risk Management: Investing in multiple assets, including foreign debt, can help mitigate risk. By diversifying its investment portfolio, a country can reduce its reliance on a single asset or market. If the country’s own economy or domestic investments are facing challenges, having investments in foreign debt can provide a buffer and help spread risk across different markets and currencies.
- Yield Opportunities: Investing in another country’s debt can offer yield opportunities that may not be available domestically. The interest rates and returns on debt of different countries vary depending on their economic conditions, fiscal policies, and credit ratings. Buying another country’s debt with higher interest rates can potentially generate additional income for the investing country.
- Foreign Exchange Management: Buying another country’s debt can also serve as a strategic tool for managing foreign exchange reserves. If a country has excess reserves in one currency, it may choose to invest in another country’s debt denominated in that currency to manage its foreign exchange exposure. This can help stabilize the country’s foreign exchange reserves and hedge against currency fluctuations.
- Diversification of Investments: Diversifying investments across different asset classes, including foreign debt, can provide a well-rounded portfolio. It allows a country to spread its risk across various investment options, reducing the impact of potential losses in any one investment. This can help safeguard the country’s financial stability and provide a balanced approach to managing its reserves.
Overall, diversification of investment portfolio is a crucial economic reason for a country to buy another country’s debt. By spreading risk, seeking yield opportunities, managing foreign exchange exposure, and diversifying investments, countries can strategically utilize foreign debt purchases as a part of their overall economic and financial management strategy.
Buying Another Country’s Debt Can Be Seen As A Form Of Investment
Investing in another country’s debt can be viewed as a form of investment, with the potential to generate returns. Here are some points to consider:
- Interest Income: When a country buys another country’s debt, it essentially lends money to that country in exchange for interest payments. The interest rate on the debt is typically determined by the borrower’s creditworthiness and prevailing market conditions. As such, buying another country’s debt can provide a source of interest income for the investing country, which can contribute to potential returns.
- Capital Gains: In addition to interest income, there may be potential for capital gains when buying another country’s debt. If the debt is traded in secondary markets, its value may fluctuate based on factors such as changes in interest rates, market sentiment, and economic conditions. If the debt is sold at a higher price than its original purchase price, the investing country may realize a capital gain.
- Portfolio Diversification: As mentioned earlier, investing in another country’s debt can also help diversify a country’s investment portfolio. By adding foreign debt to its holdings, a country can spread its investments across different asset classes and geographies, reducing risk and potentially enhancing returns. This diversification can provide a balanced approach to investment, and the potential returns from foreign debt can contribute to overall portfolio performance.
- Strategic Investment: Buying another country’s debt can also be seen as a strategic investment, aimed at achieving certain economic or political objectives. For instance, a country may invest in the debt of another country to strengthen diplomatic ties, establish economic cooperation, or gain influence in international relations. While the returns from such strategic investments may not be solely financial, they can contribute to the broader strategic objectives of the investing country.
Overall, buying another country’s debt can be seen as a form of investment that can potentially provide returns in the form of interest income, capital gains, and portfolio diversification. It can also serve as a strategic investment, supporting a country’s economic or political objectives. However, it’s important to note that like any investment, buying another country’s debt also involves risks and uncertainties, including credit risk, market volatility, and geopolitical factors. Careful assessment of risks and potential returns is essential for countries considering this form of investment.
Interest Rates And Risk Associated With The Debt Of Different Countries, And How It May Impact The Decision To Buy Another Country’s Debt
Interest rates and risk are crucial factors that can significantly impact the decision of a country to buy another country’s debt. Here’s a closer look at how these factors can influence the decision-making process:
- Interest Rates: The interest rate on a country’s debt is a key consideration for potential investors. It reflects the cost of borrowing for the issuing country and the potential returns for the investing country. Higher interest rates generally imply higher returns, but they also come with increased risk. Countries with higher credit ratings and stronger economic fundamentals may offer lower interest rates, as their debt is considered less risky. On the other hand, countries with weaker credit ratings and uncertain economic outlooks may offer higher interest rates to attract investors. The interest rate differential between the buying country’s debt and the debt of the country whose debt is being purchased is a significant factor that can impact the decision to buy another country’s debt.
- Credit Risk: The creditworthiness of the country whose debt is being considered for purchase is a critical factor to assess. Countries with higher credit ratings are considered less risky, as they are more likely to repay their debts in a timely manner. Credit ratings are typically assigned by credit rating agencies based on various factors such as a country’s economic strength, political stability, fiscal policies, and debt levels. Investing in the debt of a country with a lower credit rating can be riskier, as it may have a higher likelihood of defaulting on its debt obligations. Countries considering buying another country’s debt need to carefully evaluate the credit risk associated with the issuing country’s debt, as it can impact the potential returns and overall risk profile of the investment.
- Economic and Political Risk: Economic and political risks of the issuing country are crucial factors that can impact the decision to buy its debt. Economic factors such as inflation, GDP growth, and fiscal policies can impact the stability of a country’s economy and its ability to repay its debt. Political stability and geopolitical factors can also impact a country’s creditworthiness and the risk associated with its debt. Changes in government, policy decisions, and geopolitical tensions can create uncertainties and impact the potential returns and risk profile of the investment. Countries need to carefully assess these risks when considering buying another country’s debt.
- Currency Risk: Buying another country’s debt also exposes the investing country to currency risk. If the debt is denominated in a foreign currency, fluctuations in exchange rates can impact the returns on the investment. A depreciation in the issuing country’s currency can reduce the returns when converted back into the investing country’s currency. Managing currency risk is an important consideration in the decision to buy another country’s debt, as it can impact the overall risk and return profile of the investment.
Overall, the interest rates and risk associated with the debt of different countries are critical factors that can impact the decision of a country to buy another country’s debt. Assessing the credit risk, economic and political stability, currency risk, and interest rate differentials are crucial steps in evaluating the potential returns and risks of such an investment. Careful analysis of these factors is essential for countries to make informed decisions and manage the risks associated with buying another country’s debt.
Geopolitical Factors
Geopolitical Factors That May Influence A Country’s Decision To Buy Another Country’s Debt
Geopolitical factors play a significant role in shaping international relations and can also influence a country’s decision to buy another country’s debt. Here’s a closer look at how geopolitical factors can impact such decisions:
- Diplomatic Relations: Diplomatic relations between countries can impact their economic interactions, including debt buying decisions. Countries that have strong diplomatic relations, alliances, or historical ties may be more inclined to buy each other’s debt as a gesture of support or cooperation. For example, countries that share strong diplomatic relations, such as allies or trading partners, may be more willing to buy each other’s debt to strengthen their bilateral ties or demonstrate solidarity in times of economic or political challenges. On the other hand, strained diplomatic relations or conflicts between countries may deter one country from buying another country’s debt, as it could be seen as an unfavorable economic engagement.
- Strategic Interests: Countries may also consider their strategic interests when deciding to buy another country’s debt. Strategic interests can include factors such as access to resources, geopolitical influence, or regional stability. Buying the debt of another country can be a way for a country to gain favor or influence in that region or advance its strategic interests. For example, a country may buy the debt of a neighboring country to establish economic ties and foster regional stability, or it may invest in the debt of a country with significant natural resources to gain access to those resources. Geopolitical considerations related to strategic interests can play a significant role in a country’s decision to buy another country’s debt.
- Political Considerations: Political considerations, both domestic and international, can also influence a country’s decision to buy another country’s debt. Domestically, the political leadership may use debt buying as a tool to showcase economic policies, gain support, or create a favorable image for their constituents. Internationally, a country may engage in debt buying to strengthen its position in international forums or negotiations. For example, a country may strategically buy the debt of another country to gain leverage in international trade negotiations or to influence policy decisions at the global level. Political considerations can be a driving force in a country’s decision to buy another country’s debt.
- Risk Mitigation: Geopolitical factors can also be considered as a form of risk mitigation. For example, a country may buy another country’s debt as a way to diversify its investment portfolio and spread risk across different countries. By investing in debt from multiple countries, a country can reduce its reliance on any single country’s debt and mitigate risks associated with economic fluctuations, policy changes, or geopolitical tensions in a specific region. This risk mitigation strategy can be an important geopolitical factor that influences a country’s decision to buy another country’s debt.
Overall, geopolitical factors such as diplomatic relations, strategic interests, political considerations, and risk mitigation strategies can significantly impact a country’s decision to buy another country’s debt. These factors can shape economic interactions between countries and influence the direction of international relations. Careful consideration of these geopolitical factors is essential for countries to make informed decisions when buying another country’s debt, taking into account their economic, political, and strategic objectives.
Buying Another Country’s Debt Can Be A Way To Establish Or Strengthen Diplomatic Ties
Diplomatic relations between countries play a crucial role in shaping international interactions, and buying another country’s debt can be a strategic tool to establish or strengthen diplomatic ties. Here’s how buying another country’s debt can serve as a means to enhance diplomatic relations:
- Economic Cooperation: Buying another country’s debt can be seen as a form of economic cooperation, which can foster goodwill and trust between countries. By investing in another country’s debt, a country can demonstrate its commitment to economic cooperation and partnership, which can contribute to the establishment of stronger diplomatic ties. It can also signal a willingness to support the economic development of another country, which can create a positive perception and lay the groundwork for enhanced diplomatic relations.
- Mutual Interests: When countries share mutual economic interests, buying each other’s debt can be a way to reinforce those interests and deepen diplomatic ties. For example, countries that have complementary economies, such as trading partners or countries with mutual investment interests, may choose to buy each other’s debt to further solidify their economic relationship. This can be a strategic move to foster closer diplomatic ties and align their interests, leading to increased cooperation and collaboration in other areas as well.
- Trust-building: Buying another country’s debt can also be a trust-building measure in diplomatic relations. By showing confidence in another country’s economic stability and creditworthiness through debt buying, a country can build trust and confidence with the debtor country. This can create a positive environment for diplomatic relations and pave the way for further engagement and cooperation in other areas, such as trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.
- Soft Power Diplomacy: Debt buying can also be seen as a form of soft power diplomacy, where countries use economic means to achieve diplomatic objectives. By buying another country’s debt, a country can project its economic influence and promote its values and interests. It can also create opportunities for diplomatic engagement, negotiation, and dialogue, which can help to build stronger diplomatic ties over time.
- Crisis Management: In times of economic crises or financial challenges, buying another country’s debt can be a way to extend support and establish goodwill. For example, during a financial crisis, a country may choose to buy the debt of another country to provide financial assistance and show solidarity. This can be a diplomatic gesture that helps to manage crises, build trust, and strengthen diplomatic relations.
Overall, buying another country’s debt can be a strategic tool to establish or strengthen diplomatic ties. It can foster economic cooperation, align mutual interests, build trust, and serve as a form of soft power diplomacy. By leveraging debt buying as a diplomatic tool, countries can enhance their relations, promote economic cooperation, and create a positive environment for further engagement and collaboration.
Purchasing Another Country’s Debt Can Influence Political And Economic Relations Between Countries
The purchase of another country’s debt can have significant implications for both political and economic relations between countries. Here’s a closer analysis of how this practice can impact the relations between nations:
- Economic Interdependence: When a country buys another country’s debt, it creates a form of economic interdependence between the two nations. The debtor country becomes reliant on the creditor country for repayment of the debt, while the creditor country has a vested interest in the debtor country’s economic stability and growth. This economic interdependence can foster closer economic relations and cooperation, as both countries have a shared interest in the debtor country’s economic success. It can also create opportunities for increased trade, investment, and economic collaboration, as the creditor country seeks to protect its investment and ensure repayment of the debt.
- Political Influence: Purchasing another country’s debt can also provide the creditor country with a level of political influence over the debtor country. The creditor country may leverage its position as a creditor to influence the debtor country’s economic policies, fiscal decisions, and other political matters. This can range from imposing conditions or reforms as part of the debt agreement, to using debt repayment as a bargaining chip in diplomatic negotiations. The level of political influence can vary depending on the size of the debt and the creditor country’s economic and geopolitical power, but it can be a significant factor in shaping the political dynamics between countries.
- Diplomatic Relations: The purchase of another country’s debt can also impact diplomatic relations between countries. It can serve as a gesture of goodwill and cooperation, promoting diplomatic engagement and dialogue. It can also be used as a tool for diplomatic leverage or as a form of economic diplomacy, where countries strategically use debt buying to strengthen their diplomatic relations and achieve their foreign policy objectives. On the other hand, if there are disagreements or disputes related to the debt, it can strain diplomatic relations and create tensions between countries.
- Risk Management: The purchase of another country’s debt can also impact a country’s risk management strategies. Investing in debt from other countries can be seen as a diversification strategy to spread risks and mitigate potential losses. However, it also comes with risks, such as changes in exchange rates, interest rates, and economic conditions in the debtor country. The creditor country may need to carefully assess and manage these risks, which can impact its overall economic and financial relations with the debtor country.
- Economic Development: In some cases, purchasing another country’s debt can be seen as a way to support the debtor country’s economic development. By providing financial resources through debt buying, the creditor country can contribute to infrastructure projects, social programs, and other development initiatives in the debtor country. This can promote economic growth, improve living standards, and create opportunities for trade and investment, which can further enhance economic relations between the countries.
Overall, purchasing another country’s debt can have significant implications for both political and economic relations between countries. It can create economic interdependence, influence political dynamics, impact diplomatic relations, affect risk management strategies, and contribute to economic development. Careful analysis and management of these factors are essential to navigate the complexities of buying another country’s debt and its potential impact on bilateral relations.
Financial Benefits And Risks
Potential Financial Benefits Of Buying Another Country’s Debt
One of the primary reasons why countries may choose to buy another country’s debt is the potential financial benefits that can be derived from such investments. Here’s a closer examination of the potential financial gains associated with buying another country’s debt:
- Interest Income: When a country buys another country’s debt, it becomes a creditor and is entitled to receive interest payments on the debt. The interest income can provide a steady stream of revenue for the creditor country, which can be used to fund various domestic programs or investments. The interest rate on the debt is typically negotiated at the time of purchase and can vary depending on factors such as the creditworthiness of the debtor country, prevailing market rates, and the term of the debt. Higher interest rates can result in higher interest income for the creditor country, potentially enhancing its financial returns.
- Potential Capital Gains: Another potential financial benefit of buying another country’s debt is the opportunity for capital gains. Capital gains can arise if the debtor country’s economic and financial conditions improve, leading to an increase in the value of the debt in the secondary market. This can allow the creditor country to sell the debt at a higher price than the original purchase price, realizing a capital gain. However, it’s important to note that capital gains are not guaranteed and depend on various factors, including changes in the debtor country’s economic and political landscape.
- Diversification of Investment Portfolio: Buying another country’s debt can also serve as a diversification strategy for a country’s investment portfolio. By investing in debt from other countries, a country can spread its investment risk across different asset classes and geographical regions. This can help to reduce the concentration risk associated with investing solely in domestic assets and can provide potential financial benefits through diversification. However, it’s important to carefully assess the credit risk associated with the debtor country’s debt, as it can impact the overall risk profile of the investment portfolio.
- Currency and Yield Considerations: The currency and yield considerations associated with buying another country’s debt can also impact the potential financial benefits. If the debtor country’s debt is denominated in a different currency than the creditor country’s currency, there may be exchange rate risks that can affect the investment returns. Changes in exchange rates can impact the value of the debt and the interest income received. Additionally, the yield on the debt, which is the annual return on investment, should be considered in relation to the prevailing market rates and the risk associated with the debt. A higher yield can provide higher potential returns, but it may also reflect higher risk.
Overall, buying another country’s debt can offer potential financial benefits, including interest income, potential capital gains, diversification of investment portfolio, and currency and yield considerations. However, it’s important to carefully assess the credit risk of the debtor country, evaluate the potential gains in relation to the risks, and consider various factors such as interest rates, exchange rates, and market conditions before making such investments. Proper risk management and thorough analysis are essential to make informed decisions and optimize the potential financial benefits of buying another country’s debt.
Risks Associated With Buying Another Country’s Debt
While there can be potential financial benefits to buying another country’s debt, it’s important to recognize and understand the risks that come with such investments. Here’s a discussion of some of the risks associated with buying another country’s debt:
- Currency Risk: When a country buys debt denominated in a currency that is different from its own, it exposes itself to currency risk. Exchange rate fluctuations can impact the value of the debt and the returns on investment. If the debtor country’s currency weakens against the creditor country’s currency, it can result in reduced returns or even losses when the debt is repaid or interest payments are received. Currency risk can be particularly relevant for long-term debt investments, as exchange rates can be volatile over extended periods of time. Proper risk management and hedging strategies may be required to mitigate currency risk.
- Default Risk: Another significant risk associated with buying another country’s debt is default risk. Default risk refers to the possibility that the debtor country may not be able to meet its debt obligations, either by failing to make interest payments or by defaulting on the principal amount. Factors that can contribute to default risk include the debtor country’s economic and financial stability, political stability, creditworthiness, and debt sustainability. Default risk can vary across countries and debt issuances, and it’s crucial to thoroughly assess the creditworthiness of the debtor country before investing in its debt. Credit ratings and credit risk assessments provided by reputable agencies can be helpful in evaluating default risk.
- Economic and Political Risks: Buying another country’s debt can also expose the creditor country to economic and political risks associated with the debtor country. Economic risks can include changes in the debtor country’s economic conditions, such as GDP growth, inflation, and employment levels, which can impact its ability to meet its debt obligations. Political risks can include changes in government, policy shifts, geopolitical tensions, and other events that can affect the debtor country’s stability and creditworthiness. These risks can impact the value and performance of the debt investment and should be carefully considered and monitored.
- Liquidity Risk: Liquidity risk is another potential risk associated with buying another country’s debt. The secondary market for debt issued by some countries may be less liquid, meaning it may be harder to buy or sell the debt at desired prices or volumes. This can impact the ability to exit or adjust the investment position in a timely manner. Proper liquidity management and understanding the secondary market dynamics for the debtor country’s debt are important considerations to mitigate liquidity risk.
Overall, buying another country’s debt comes with inherent risks, including currency risk, default risk, economic and political risks, and liquidity risk. It’s crucial to thoroughly assess these risks and carefully evaluate the creditworthiness of the debtor country before making such investments. Proper risk management strategies, including diversification, monitoring, and hedging, may be necessary to mitigate the risks associated with buying another country’s debt and to make informed investment decisions.
How Countries Assess The Risks And Benefits Of Buying Another Country’s Debt And Make Informed Decisions
When countries consider buying another country’s debt, they typically conduct a thorough assessment of the risks and benefits involved to make informed decisions. Here’s an analysis of how countries may assess the risks and benefits of buying another country’s debt:
- Creditworthiness Assessment: One of the primary considerations for countries when assessing the risks of buying another country’s debt is the creditworthiness of the debtor country. This assessment involves analyzing the debtor country’s economic and financial stability, including factors such as GDP growth, inflation, employment levels, fiscal policy, monetary policy, external balances, and debt sustainability. Countries may also consider credit ratings and credit risk assessments provided by reputable agencies to gauge the debtor country’s creditworthiness. A higher credit rating indicates lower default risk, while a lower credit rating may signal higher default risk.
- Interest Rate Analysis: Countries also assess the interest rates offered on the debt being considered for purchase. Higher interest rates may offer potentially higher returns, but also come with increased risk. Countries may compare the interest rates offered on the debtor country’s debt with prevailing market rates, as well as with other investment options available in their portfolio. The relative attractiveness of the interest rates in comparison to the associated risks is an important factor in the decision-making process.
- Geopolitical Factors: Geopolitical factors also play a role in the assessment of risks and benefits. Countries may consider their diplomatic relations and strategic interests with the debtor country. For example, a country may be motivated to buy another country’s debt as a way to establish or strengthen diplomatic ties, or to further its strategic interests in a particular region. Geopolitical considerations can influence a country’s decision to buy another country’s debt, as it may impact the stability and creditworthiness of the debtor country.
- Risk Management Strategies: Countries also employ risk management strategies to mitigate the risks associated with buying another country’s debt. Diversification is often used as a risk management strategy, where countries may spread their investments across different debtor countries to reduce concentration risk. Monitoring and regular assessments of the debtor country’s economic and political conditions are important to stay informed about any changes that may impact the creditworthiness and performance of the debt investment. Countries may also use hedging strategies, such as currency hedging or interest rate hedging, to mitigate currency risk and interest rate risk associated with the debt investment.
- Potential Benefits: Lastly, countries also consider the potential benefits of buying another country’s debt. These may include interest income, potential capital gains if the debt is traded at a higher price in the secondary market, and the potential for positive impact on diplomatic and economic relations with the debtor country.
Overall, countries assess the risks and benefits of buying another country’s debt through a comprehensive evaluation of the debtor country’s creditworthiness, interest rates, geopolitical factors, and risk management strategies. This assessment process helps countries make informed decisions regarding the purchase of another country’s debt, taking into account the potential risks and benefits associated with such investments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, buying another country’s debt can be a complex decision that involves various economic, geopolitical, and risk assessment factors. While it may seem counterintuitive for a country to buy another country’s debt, there are several reasons why this may occur.
First, buying another country’s debt can be seen as a form of investment, providing potential returns in the form of interest income and potential capital gains. Countries with excess funds may seek to diversify their investment portfolio by including foreign debt in order to mitigate risks and potentially earn higher returns.
Second, the interest rates offered on the debt and the creditworthiness of the debtor country are crucial considerations. Countries may assess the debtor country’s economic and financial stability, credit ratings, and risk assessments to determine the creditworthiness of the debt. Higher interest rates may offer attractive returns, but also come with increased risks, which need to be carefully evaluated.
Third, geopolitical factors can also influence a country’s decision to buy another country’s debt. Diplomatic relations and strategic interests may play a role in establishing or strengthening ties with the debtor country, and debt investment can be used as a means to achieve these objectives. However, geopolitical considerations may also impact the stability and creditworthiness of the debtor country, which need to be carefully weighed in the decision-making process.
Furthermore, countries may employ risk management strategies, such as diversification, monitoring, and hedging, to mitigate the risks associated with buying another country’s debt. Regular assessments of the debtor country’s economic and political conditions, as well as the use of hedging strategies, can help manage currency risk, interest rate risk, and other risks associated with the debt investment.
Lastly, potential financial benefits, such as interest income and potential capital gains, are also factors that countries may consider when buying another country’s debt. These benefits, along with the potential positive impact on diplomatic and economic relations, may further incentivize countries to invest in another country’s debt.
Overall, countries may buy another country’s debt for various reasons, including diversification of their investment portfolio, potential returns, establishment or strengthening of diplomatic ties, and geopolitical considerations. However, such decisions involve careful assessment of risks and benefits, including creditworthiness of the debtor country, interest rates, geopolitical factors, and risk management strategies. It is crucial for countries to thoroughly evaluate these factors and make informed decisions when considering buying another country’s debt.