Japan lost the status of the world's largest creditor after 34 years

Japan lost the status of the world's largest creditor for the first time in 34 years, which took place despite the achievement of a record value of 533.05 trillion ($ 3.7 trillion) of foreign assets – according to data published on Tuesday by the Ministry of Finance in Tokyo. The name of the leader was taken over by Germany, China retained the third place.

The growth of Japanese net assets, owned by the government, companies and private individuals, amounted to 60.9 trillion yen, i.e. 12.9 percent. year on year.

The main factors that drive this increase – the seventh year in a row – were the weakening of Jen towards the dollar (by 11.7 percent) and euros (by 5 %), which increased the value of existing foreign resources in terms of Jena. The lively activity of Japanese companies in the field of mergers and acquisitions abroad also contributed to growth.

Despite this, Japan was overtaken by Germany, whose net assets amounted to 569.7 trillion of yen – according to ministerial data.

Germany's promotion reflects their significant surplus on the current turnover account, which in 2024 reached $ 283.2 billion, mainly due to strong trade results – explains Bloomberg.

China took the third place with 516.3 trillion of foreign assets. On the other hand, the United States has recorded a negative position, with a net external obligations of 4109.26 trillion, which means that their foreign debts are significantly exceeding the assets.

Krzysztof Pawliszak (PAP)

KRP/ SP/