1. Home
  2. News & Issues
  3. US Economy

How Do Bonds Impact the US Economy?

By , About.com Guide

Question: How Do Bonds Impact the US Economy?
Answer: Treasury bonds impact the economy by providing extra spending money for the government and consumers. This is because Treasury bonds are essentially a loan to the government that is usually purchased by domestic consumers. However, for a variety of reasons, foreign governments have been purchasing a larger percentage of Treasury bonds, in effect providing the U.S. government with a loan. This allows the government to spend more, which stimulates the economy.

Treasury Bonds also help the consumer. When there is a great demand for bonds, it lowers the interest rate because the U.S. government doesn’t have to offer as much to attract buyers. Lower interest rates on bonds means lower interest rates on mortgages. This allows homeowners to afford more expensive homes.

Bonds FAQ

Explore US Economy

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Weird Breaking News

A daily look at some of the oddest (and dumbest) crimes around. More >

  1. Home
  2. News & Issues
  3. US Economy
  4. Financial Markets
  5. Bonds FAQ
  6. Bonds and the U.S. Economy - How Bonds Impact the U.S. Economy>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.