As of December 2024, Japan held United States treasury securities totaling about 1.06 trillion U.S. dollars. Foreign holders of United States treasury debt According to the Federal Reserve and U.S. Department of the Treasury, foreign countries held a total of 8.5 trillion U.S. dollars in U.S. treasury securities as of December 2024. Of the total held by foreign countries, Japan and Mainland China held the greatest portions, with China holding 759 billion U.S. dollars in U.S. securities. The U.S. public debt In 2023, the United States had a total public national debt of 33.2 trillion U.S. dollars, an amount that has been rising steadily, particularly since 2008. In 2023, the total interest expense on debt held by the public of the United States reached 678 billion U.S. dollars, while 197 billion U.S. dollars in interest expense were intra governmental debt holdings. Total outlays of the U.S. government were 6.1 trillion U.S. dollars in 2023. By 2029, spending is projected to reach 8.3 trillion U.S. dollars.

In 2023, China held 5.33 percent of foreign held U.S. securities. Japan held a further 9.28 percent of foreign held securities. The national debt of the United Stated can be found here.

Holdings of US Treasury Securities data was reported at 784.300 USD bn in Feb 2025. This records an increase from the previous number of 760.802 USD bn for Jan 2025. Holdings of US Treasury Securities data is updated monthly, averaging 937.400 USD bn from Mar 2000 (Median) to Feb 2025, with 300 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,316.700 USD bn in Nov 2013 and a record low of 58.900 USD bn in Nov 2000. Holdings of US Treasury Securities data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by U.S. Department of the Treasury. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Government and Public Finance – Table CN.FF: Holdings of US Treasury Securities.

Graph and download economic data for Federal Debt Held by Foreign and International Investors (FDHBFIN) from Q1 1970 to Q1 2025 about foreign, debt, federal, and USA.

The value of U.S. Treasury securities held by residents of Russia amounted to ** million U.S. dollars in March 2025, marking a stark contrast to ***** billion U.S. dollars held in January 2020. The lowest over the period under consideration was recorded in November 2023 at ** million U.S. dollars. Furthermore, in March 2020, the figure plummeted to **** billion U.S. dollars, down from **** billion U.S. dollars one month prior. Russia’s holdings of U.S. treasury securities have decreased since 2014 following the Western sanctions over the annexation of Crimea and have further dropped in 2022 after more restrictions were imposed over the war in Ukraine. What are U.S. treasury holdings? U.S. treasury holdings are government debt instruments that contribute to the funding of various government projects in the country. The U.S. Department of Treasury allows individuals and organizations to invest in treasury notes, bills, and bonds, which are the main three types of securities. Just under half of the outstanding ** trillion U.S. dollars as of May 2024 were in the form of treasury notes. The notes have varying maturities and coupon payment frequencies, which are different from the maturity periods of treasury bills and bonds. Main foreign holders of U.S. treasury securities Foreign holdings of U.S. treasury debt amounted to ***** trillion U.S. dollars as of January 2024. Japan and China held the largest portions, with China possessing ***** billion U.S. dollars in U.S. securities. Additionally, other significant foreign holders included oil exporting countries and Caribbean banking centers.

The major foreign holders of U.S. Treasury securities are typically countries and entities that invest heavily in U.S. government debt. As of the latest data, here are some of the top foreign holders:

Japan: Historically, Japan has been the largest holder of U.S. Treasury securities. China: China is another major holder, though its holdings have fluctuated due to various economic and political factors. United Kingdom: The UK is a significant investor in U.S. Treasuries, often ranked among the top holders. Ireland: Ireland holds a substantial amount of U.S. Treasury securities. Luxembourg: Luxembourg is also a notable holder of U.S. Treasuries. Switzerland: Swiss investments in U.S. Treasury securities are considerable. Brazil: Brazil is one of the largest holders in Latin America. Belgium: Belgium, often through its financial institutions, holds a significant amount. Taiwan: Taiwan's central bank and other financial institutions invest heavily in U.S. Treasuries. Hong Kong: Hong Kong maintains substantial holdings in U.S. Treasuries. These rankings can change frequently based on economic conditions, currency reserves, and geopolitical factors. For the most up-to-date information, refer to the U.S. Department of the Treasury's "Major Foreign Holders of Treasury Securities" report.

Key information about China External Debt

• China External Debt reached 2,516.9 USD bn in Sep 2024, compared with 2,545.3 USD bn in the previous quarter.
• China External Debt: USD mn data is updated quarterly, available from Jun 2003 to Sep 2024.
• The data reached an all-time high of 2,746.6 USD bn in Dec 2021 and a record low of 182.6 USD bn in Jun 2003.

• In the latest reports of China, Current Account recorded a surplus of 147.6 USD bn in Sep 2024.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) fell by 8.3 USD bn in Sep 2024.
• China Direct Investment Abroad expanded by 34.5 USD bn in Sep 2024.
• Its Foreign Portfolio Investment increased by 24.0 USD bn in Sep 2024.
• The country's Nominal GDP was reported at 4,166.8 USD bn in Mar 2023.

USF: Long Term: Corporate Debt: China data was reported at 16.288 USD bn in 2017. This records an increase from the previous number of 15.898 USD bn for 2016. USF: Long Term: Corporate Debt: China data is updated yearly, averaging 18.337 USD bn from Jun 2002 (Median) to 2017, with 16 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 58.494 USD bn in 2006 and a record low of 10.898 USD bn in 2002. USF: Long Term: Corporate Debt: China data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Department of Treasury. The data is categorized under Global Database’s USA – Table US.Z047: Foreign Residents' Portfolio Holdings of U.S. Securities.

United States FSU: Debt: Long Term: Straight Debt: China data was reported at 2.977 USD bn in 2017. This records an increase from the previous number of 1.620 USD bn for 2016. United States FSU: Debt: Long Term: Straight Debt: China data is updated yearly, averaging 1.372 USD bn from Dec 2003 (Median) to 2017, with 15 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 2.977 USD bn in 2017 and a record low of 526.000 USD mn in 2009. United States FSU: Debt: Long Term: Straight Debt: China data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Department of Treasury. The data is categorized under Global Database’s USA – Table US.Z044: U.S. Residents' Portfolio Holdings of Foreign Securities.

The yield on China 10Y Bond Yield rose to 1.69% on June 6, 2025, marking a 0.01 percentage point increase from the previous session. Over the past month, the yield has edged up by 0.05 points, though it remains 0.61 points lower than a year ago, according to over-the-counter interbank yield quotes for this government bond maturity. China 10-Year Government Bond Yield - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on June of 2025.

United States FSU: Debt: Short Term: Commercial Paper: China data was reported at 142.000 USD mn in 2016. This records a decrease from the previous number of 609.000 USD mn for 2015. United States FSU: Debt: Short Term: Commercial Paper: China data is updated yearly, averaging 57.500 USD mn from Dec 2003 (Median) to 2016, with 14 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 2.453 USD bn in 2014 and a record low of 0.000 USD mn in 2010. United States FSU: Debt: Short Term: Commercial Paper: China data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Department of Treasury. The data is categorized under Global Database’s USA – Table US.Z044: U.S. Residents' Portfolio Holdings of Foreign Securities.

United States FSU: Debt: Short Term: Negotiable CDs: China data was reported at 382.000 USD mn in 2016. This records an increase from the previous number of 189.000 USD mn for 2015. United States FSU: Debt: Short Term: Negotiable CDs: China data is updated yearly, averaging 24.000 USD mn from Dec 2003 (Median) to 2016, with 14 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 670.000 USD mn in 2014 and a record low of 0.000 USD mn in 2005. United States FSU: Debt: Short Term: Negotiable CDs: China data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Department of Treasury. The data is categorized under Global Database’s USA – Table US.Z044: U.S. Residents' Portfolio Holdings of Foreign Securities.

Government bond spreads as of April 15, 2025, varied widely among the largest economies when compared to German Bunds and U.S. Treasury notes. The United Kingdom's bond spread was the higest against both, with 217.7 basis points (bps) over Germany and 33.4 bps over the U.S. In contrast, China and Japan display negative spreads, with Japan having the lowest spread at -301.2 bps against U.S. Treasuries. Italy, the United Kingdom, and Canada showed moderate spreads. Positive bond spreads indicate that a country’s government bonds have higher yields compared to the benchmark bonds - in this case, the German Bunds and U.S. Treasury notes. Higher spreads often signal perceived higher risk or economic uncertainty, as investors demand greater returns for holding these bonds. expectations. Conversely, negative spreads mean that these bonds offer lower yields than the benchmark. Negative spreads often indicate strong investor confidence, safe-haven status, or lower inflation expectations, as investors are willing to accept lower returns for the perceived stability of these bonds.

United States FSU: Debt: Long Term: Zero Coupon: China data was reported at 3.000 USD mn in 2017. This records an increase from the previous number of 0.000 USD mn for 2016. United States FSU: Debt: Long Term: Zero Coupon: China data is updated yearly, averaging 0.000 USD mn from Dec 2003 (Median) to 2017, with 11 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3.000 USD mn in 2017 and a record low of 0.000 USD mn in 2016. United States FSU: Debt: Long Term: Zero Coupon: China data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Department of Treasury. The data is categorized under Global Database’s USA – Table US.Z044: U.S. Residents' Portfolio Holdings of Foreign Securities.

Angola owed China nearly 22 billion U.S. dollars in 2020. The Asiatic country was Angola's main bilateral creditor, with a share of 43 percent of the Angolan public external debt. The United Kingdom came in second, holding around 12.6 billion U.S. dollars of Angola's debt. Overall, the Angolan public external debt increased to over 50 billion U.S. dollars in the said period.

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Debt Financing Market Size 2025-2029

The debt financing market size is forecast to increase by USD 7.89 billion at a CAGR of 6.4% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the tax advantages of debt financing for businesses. The ability to deduct interest payments from taxable income makes debt financing an attractive option for companies seeking capital. Another key trend in the market is the increasing collaboration and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity, which often involves the use of debt financing to fund transactions. However, it is important to note that collateral may be necessary for some forms of debt financing, adding layer of complexity to the process.
Companies seeking to capitalize on these opportunities must navigate the challenges of securing adequate collateral and managing debt levels to maintain financial health and wellness. Effective debt management strategies, such as optimizing debt structures and maintaining strong credit ratings, will be essential for companies looking to succeed in this dynamic market. Debt financing is a significant component of the regional capital markets, with financial institutions, banks, and insurance companies serving as major players.

What will be the Size of the Debt Financing Market during the forecast period?

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The market encompasses various debt instruments issued by entities to secure funds for business operations and growth. Market dynamics are influenced by several factors, including interest rate cycles, monetary policy, and economic growth. Basel Accords and the Financial Stability Board set standards for financial institutions' risk management and capital adequacy, impacting debt issuance. Government debt, securitization transactions, and various debt instruments like interest rate swaps, loan-to-value ratios, and credit-linked notes, shape the market landscape. Market volatility, driven by factors such as business cycles, credit spreads, and risk appetite, influences investor sentiment. Debt sustainability, fiscal policy, and ESG investing are increasingly important considerations for issuers and investors.
Asset managers are focusing on leveraging technology and data analytics to improve operational efficiency and meet the evolving needs of investors. The market is, however, not without challenges, with regulatory compliance and interest rate risks being major concerns. Overall, the income asset management market in North America is poised for steady growth, driven by the demand for debt financing and wealth management solutions, and the increasing adoption of advanced analytics and ETFs.

How is this Debt Financing Industry segmented?

The debt financing industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Source

  Private
  Public


Type

  Long-term
  Short-term
  Long-term


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    Spain
    UK


  APAC

    China
    Japan
    South Korea


  Middle East and Africa



  South America

By Source Insights

The private segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Debt financing is a popular financing method for businesses seeking to expand operations while maintaining ownership. Private debt financing, in particular, has gained significant traction among financial specialists worldwide due to its importance in funding small- and mid-sized organizations globally. The demand for debt financing by startups has increased annually, leading to the sector's substantial growth over the last five years. This financing option's flexibility enables businesses to customize their financing solutions to address specific needs, making it an allure for numerous organizations. Private debt financing encompasses various instruments such as Real Estate Debt, Term Loans, Leveraged Buyouts, Asset Securitization, Infrastructure Financing, Loan Servicing, and more.

Financial Leverage, Debt Covenants, Credit Risk, and Interest Rate Risk are essential considerations in this sector. Hedge Funds, Collateralized Loan Obligations, High Yield Debt, and Investment Grade Debt are alternative investment areas. Private Equity, Syndicated Loans, Venture Debt, Bridge Financing, and Mezzanine Financing are also integral components. Financial Institutions offer various debt financing solutions, including Capital Markets, Expansion Financing, Growth Capital, Debt Refinancing, and Debt Consolidation. Financial Modeling, Return on Investment, and Risk Management are crucial aspects of debt financing. Debt Advisory, Financial Engineering, and Debt Capital Markets are essential services in this field. Small Business Loans, Supp

China 30 Year Bond Yield was 1.90 percent on Wednesday May 28, according to over-the-counter interbank yield quotes for this government bond maturity. This dataset includes a chart with historical data for China 30Y.

Key information about China Foreign Exchange Reserves

• China Foreign Exchange Reserves was measured at 3,227.2 USD bn in Feb 2025, compared with 3,209.0 USD bn in the previous month
• China Foreign Exchange Reserves: USD mn data is updated monthly, available from Jan 1989 to Feb 2025
• The data reached an all-time high of 3,993.2 USD bn in Jun 2014 and a record low of 3.7 USD bn in Jan 1989

• In the latest reports, China Foreign Exchange Reserves equaled 13.9 Months of Import in Dec 2024.
• Its Money Supply M2 increased 44,045.8 USD bn YoY in Sep 2024.
• China Domestic Credit reached 49,338.1 USD bn in Jan 2025, representing an increased of 7.9 % YoY.
• The country's Non Performing Loans Ratio stood at 1.5 % in Dec 2024, compared with the ratio of 1.6 % in the previous quarter.
• Household Debt of China reached 63.3 % in Mar 2023, accounting for 63.3 % of the country's Nominal GDP.

Key information about Malaysia External Debt

• Malaysia External Debt reached 301.0 USD bn in Dec 2024, compared with 306.3 USD bn in the previous quarter.
• Malaysia External Debt: USD mn data is updated quarterly, available from Mar 2009 to Dec 2024.
• The data reached an all-time high of 306.3 USD bn in Sep 2024 and a record low of 100.1 USD bn in Mar 2009.

• In the latest reports of Malaysia, Current Account recorded a surplus of 2.6 USD bn in Dec 2024.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) increased by 6.8 USD bn in Dec 2024.
• Malaysia Direct Investment Abroad expanded by 2.8 USD bn in Dec 2024.
• Its Foreign Portfolio Investment fell by 3.7 USD bn in Dec 2024.
• The country's Nominal GDP was reported at 101.3 USD bn in Mar 2023.