If you happen to be American, I’ve got “good” news for you in these confusing times of a crashing economy and staggering debt. My home country, the tiny kingdom of Belgium, Europe (pop 10 million, the size of Maryland) just managed to beat the USA on the tragic “national debt per inhabitant” hitlist.
With the US reaching a breath-taking EUR 26,047 of debt for each of its +300 million citizens, Belgium actually beat the USA by posting an even more stunning EURO 28,125 worth of debt for each inhabitant on the Belgian National Debt Clock. [Figure check: this week's Tijd financial newspaper, in Dutch]. I’m slightly confused, and maybe you are too. Should we somehow be proud, having beaten the USA?
Coming up during these weeks running up to the Christmas rush: “Crashing all the way, 24h in recession-hit Antwerp“: a merry (ho-ho-ho) post with Yuletide massive unemployment, a city hall surrounded by “for sale” signs on countless restaurant and business, with the shining lights of the upcoming grand Christmas market and open-air ice skating rink convincing everyone it’s business as usual.
“Faking it, in style“, we sure haven’t forgotten how to “act rich” in this great impoverished country of mine. As always, feel free to share your related comments, but obviously, let’s keep up the holiday spirit: only uplifting, fun and amusing entries please! The sarcasm is 100% intentional – come on guys, let’s buy another Belgian built GM for Christmas! [Image: me, checking my pension fund]
This blog is not affiliated with or endorsed by the city of Antwerp, Belgium.