Episode
Sec. Bessent's big plan to finance the national debt
- Podcast
- Marketplace
- Published
- Aug 20, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1569
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://www.marketplace.org/episode/2026/08/20/sec-bessents-big-plan-to-finance-the-national-debt
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Summary
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s buyback of long-term bonds was a bit of a letdown this week — the interest rates barely budged. The Treasury’s next move in its quest to rein in the national debt will be to issue a ton more short-term securities. But that might not be such a good idea, either. In this episode, we’ll catch you up on the bond market turmoil. Plus: Multifamily construction permits are a housing bright spot, the Fed’s favorite inflation measure is due for a methodology change, and two craft-focused small business owners share the view from their economy. Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter. Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future. Read the stories in today’s episode: "Buying a house with a credit card": The Treasury's plan to finance the national debt The Fed's preferred measure of inflation is changing As central bank bigwigs gather in Jackson Hole, local businesses carry on Builders bet on multifamily housing — but only in certain places