BlackRock CEO warns: US debt rises to $36 trillion, economic growth needs to reach 3% to avoid crisis

BlackRock CEO Larry Fink warned at the 2025 Forbes Summit that the U.S. would “drown” in debt unless a way to stimulate and grow the economy was found. Fink noted that the U.S. national debt has grown from $8 trillion in 2000 to $36 trillion now, and the upcoming tax bill is expected to add another $2.3-2.4 trillion. He stressed that the United States faces a serious crisis if it does not achieve a real growth rate of 3% per year.

Despite the grim situation, Fink still proposed solutions, including releasing more private capital, simplifying permitting processes, rebuilding infrastructure, and addressing the anticipated shortage of 500,000 electricians. He stated that the foundation for rise still exists, but if the U.S. continues to hover around 2% economic growth, the national debt will ultimately crush the country.