IMF: GLOBAL DEBT HEADED PAST 100% OF GDP

Global public debt is near its highest level since the aftermath of World War II and is on track to soon exceed 100% of GDP, IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva warned ahead of the Annual Meetings in Bangkok. She called advanced economies the worst offenders, with some of the heaviest debt loads, and said the gap between interest rates and growth has turned against borrowers after 17 years in their favor. Her prescription for high-debt rich countries: credible medium-term fiscal consolidation plans, partly to take pressure off central banks.