Global Bond Sales Surge in 2026
The first week of 2026 has witnessed an unprecedented surge in global debt markets, with bond sales hitting a record-breaking $248 billion. This represents a 26% increase over last year and dwarfs pre-pandemic levels, showing a massive 351% jump compared to 2019.
Several key factors are driving this borrowing frenzy:
Catch-up Momentum: Issuers who remained on the sidelines in December are now flooding the market to finalize funding.
Earnings Deadlines: Companies are racing to secure capital before the upcoming "blackout period" linked to quarterly earnings reports.
The AI Factor: There is a strategic rush to lock in lower rates before a projected wave of AI-related bond offerings potentially drives up the cost of borrowing.
Ultimately, the global appetite for debt is accelerating at a historic pace as firms move to beat both the clock and rising costs.
