Eduardo Knak 
Key Takeaways The question has gained attention as recent data shows an uptick in personal bankruptcy filings across several U.S. jurisdictions. After years of unusually low levels, the increase has prompted renewed discussion about household financial stress. What the data indicates is a normalization rather than a surge. Filings rose from suppressed pandemic-era levels, when … Read more
Key Takeaways Recent movements in U.S. Treasury yields have drawn attention beyond financial markets, as longer-term rates begin to influence everyday borrowing decisions more directly. What just happened is a series of modest but persistent moves in yields on 10- and 30-year Treasurys. These shifts reflect changing expectations about inflation, growth, and how long restrictive … Read more
Key Takeaways Think of the economy like a bridge. From a distance, it can look solid and well-built. But crossing it feels different depending on where you step and what you’re carrying. This analogy helps explain why the U.S. economy can appear stable in aggregate while many households still feel exposed when making financial decisions. … Read more
Key Takeaways Labor market slack refers to the amount of unused or underutilized labor in the economy. While the unemployment rate is the most visible indicator, slack encompasses a broader set of conditions, including underemployment, participation rates, and hours worked. The concept matters now because the labor market has remained resilient even as economic growth … Read more
Key Takeaways The question has resurfaced as inflation readings have eased from their peaks while paychecks continue to grow, at least on paper. For many workers, however, the lived experience feels less straightforward. Recent data shows nominal wage growth remains above pre-pandemic norms, even as inflation has slowed. This combination has produced modest real gains … Read more
Key Takeaways Recent developments in U.S. government borrowing have brought renewed attention to how much debt is being issued and at what cost. The shift has less to do with new legislation and more with changing financial conditions. What just happened is a continuation of heavy Treasury issuance alongside higher interest rates. While borrowing itself … Read more
Key Takeaways Think of the economy as a set of interlocking gears. When one gear slows slightly, the system keeps moving, but with less speed and more friction. This analogy helps explain why economic slowdowns often feel subtle before they become visible in headline data. Interest rates may stabilize, but credit tightens. Spending continues, but … Read more
Key Takeaways Credit utilization refers to the share of available credit that a borrower is using at any given time. It is most commonly discussed in the context of credit cards, but the concept applies broadly across revolving credit products. This metric matters now because borrowing costs are higher and credit standards more selective. As … Read more
Key Takeaways The question has gained traction as more consumers report slower approvals, smaller credit lines, or changing terms. At the same time, headline data still shows credit flowing through the system. Recent signals suggest a shift toward selectivity rather than a broad pullback. Lenders are refining risk thresholds, adjusting limits, and re-pricing offers based … Read more
Key Takeaways Recent housing data shows a market that is active in theory but constrained in practice. Demand has not disappeared, yet transactions remain muted across much of the country. What just happened is another month of low existing-home sales paired with limited inventory. Prices have held up better than many expected, even as affordability … Read more