What does net direct debt refer to?

Net direct debt specifically refers to the total amount of a governmental entity's outstanding debt obligations, minus any self-supporting debt. Self-supporting debt is typically revenue-backed debt that is expected to be repaid from income generated by specific projects rather than from general tax revenues. Therefore, when calculating net direct debt, self-supporting debt is excluded because it is not a claim on the general resources of the government.

This concept is essential for assessing the true financial obligations of a government entity. By focusing on net direct debt, investors and analysts can better understand the burden that a government carries concerning its direct liabilities that need to be serviced through general taxation rather than revenue from project-specific sources. Understanding the components of net direct debt can help stakeholders evaluate the fiscal health and creditworthiness of a governmental entity.