I'm asking you to explain Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Ireland and Iceland. And Argentina, for that matter. Those are recent examples where debt-to-GDP ratios mattered very much, and ultimately led to a catastrophic collapse in their Government bond markets, with grave social consequences. That said, the PIIGS were spared by the FED, ECB and IMF through monetization and swaps. So a full collapse never took place. I'm asking you to explain that phenomenon since it was you that said debt-to-GDP levels aren't that relevant in todays world? I am being polite and respectful here. I would love to hear your perspective.
As for Canada, I am a Canadian too. Live outside of Toronto. 25% of Canadas GDP are exports to the United States. We benefit from one of the largest trade relationships in the world, as a net exporter. What happens if and when America falls out of bed? What happens to 1/4'er of our economy that is basically US consumption, when US consumption drops off a cliff? Meanwhile, Canadian real estate values are experiencing probably the biggest bubble in a 100 years?
And we're in full agreement about US social programs funded through debt. Also reflects a shrinking tax base from offshoring. Export jobs, import debt to pay for growing social welfare programs to buy votes.