17th August 2026 – (Singapore) Billionaire investor Jim Rogers has issued a grave warning of a potential global stock market collapse, describing the current run-up in share prices across major markets as highly unusual and unsustainable. Speaking at an investor event in Hong Kong, the American financier, known as the “King of Commodities,” stated that when nearly everyone appears to be making a profit, it often signals looming trouble. Rogers, who is 83 years old and renowned for forecasting the commodities rally in 1999, pointed out that the scale of worldwide indebtedness, and particularly that of the United States, will eventually demand a reckoning. He indicated that with debts in the US now approaching 40 trillion dollars, the risk of a major correction has never been higher.
Having divested from US equities last year, Rogers reported that his remaining investments are in Chinese and Uzbekistani shares, although he is considering selling the Chinese stocks to lock in significant gains. Despite being wary of the US’s spiralling debt, Rogers explained that he continues to hold the majority of his liquid assets in US dollars, observing that, globally, the dollar remains perceived as a safe haven. He noted that during crises, capital typically flows into the US dollar, which then appreciates further. However, once the currency becomes overvalued, investors must look ahead to where they might move next. Rogers identified the Chinese yuan as a logical destination, but noted that its lack of full convertibility remains a barrier for now. He predicted that eventually, driven by the magnitude of China’s economy, the yuan would become fully convertible and assume a greater role in global finance.
Addressing concerns about Hong Kong and the broader market, Rogers suggested that when severe challenges hit the US, the shock would be felt worldwide, including in the Special Administrative Region. He advised investors to either hold cash or consider short positions, but to exercise particular caution regardless of their strategy. Reflecting on the apparent exuberance surrounding artificial intelligence investments, Rogers observed that market bubbles are a recurring phenomenon, historically evident in transformative industries such as electricity, automobiles, and aviation. While these technologies ultimately reshape the world, they are often preceded by dramatic surges in stock valuations and subsequent painful corrections—a pattern Rogers believes will repeat in the AI sector.
Despite his concerns about Western economies, Rogers maintains a positive outlook for Asia, especially China, highlighting demographic strengths and opportunities for long-term development. Confident in the region’s future, he mentioned that both his daughters are learning Mandarin and encouraged other parents to do the same, predicting that the Chinese language will be central to the next generation’s prospects.
