The hottest Debt Substack posts right now

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Top U.S. Politics Topics

Trump's economy is already in trouble

Noahpinion • 22765 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economy Policy Debt Inflation Presidential politics
  1. The economy often struggles under Republican presidents, leading to a pattern where Democrats are elected to fix it. This cycle shows that economies tend to recover when Democrats take over.
  2. Trump's incoming policies might worsen inflation and not help the economy, despite some indicators suggesting the economy is strong. This could lead to significant economic disappointment.
  3. The national debt is becoming a serious concern again as interest rates rise. This makes paying off that debt much more expensive than before, impacting the government's finances.

Economics Roundup #5

Don't Worry About the Vase • 1836 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
💰 Finance Economics Taxation Investment Debt Trade
  1. Many people believe that average tax rates and structures are unfair or ineffective. This could mean that policies need to evolve to better meet people's needs without creating high penalties for earning more.
  2. Trade barriers impact economic growth negatively, as they create higher costs in trade and limit opportunity for development across regions, both domestically and internationally.
  3. Access to credit can significantly influence people's financial wellbeing. If restrictions are placed on credit availability, it can harm those who are already struggling financially.

Shakespeare the economist.

The Common Reader • 992 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
📚 Literature Shakespeare Economics Human nature Social Issues Debt
  1. Shakespeare understood economics really well. He used themes like wealth and trade in his plays to show how money affects human relationships.
  2. His work highlights the moral issues of money, like debt and lending. For example, in The Merchant of Venice, the harsh realities of financial need lead to serious conflicts.
  3. Shakespeare's stories reflect the changing social dynamics of his time. The rise of the middle class and trade had a big impact on society and he captured that in his writing.

Top Links 638 The credit card racket. Why Trump wants Greenland. The cislunar economy & the age of the gas mask.

Chartbook • 529 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
💰 Finance Credit Cards Economy Debt Interest Rates Global Trade
  1. Credit card interest rates in the US can be very high, over 22%, which can be a heavy burden for people carrying balances. It's important to be aware of these costs.
  2. There are discussions around various topics, like why Trump has an interest in Greenland, showing how geopolitics can be tied to business and resources.
  3. The emerging cislunar economy reflects the growing importance of space and its potential impact on our economy and society, underlining how innovation stretches beyond Earth.

China's Silent Depression: An Unseen Economic Crisis

COVID Reason • 237 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
💰 Finance Economics Debt Globalization Real Estate Crisis
  1. China had a huge economic boom driven by global demand for its products, creating an illusion of strong governance.
  2. The 2008 global crisis revealed China's vulnerabilities, leading to rising debt and a focus on real estate to cope with slowed growth.
  3. Now, China's heavy debt and real estate issues are growing problems, signaling a decline in globalization that previously supported its economy.
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DOGE Is What Happens When Trust In Government Hits Zero

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 62 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Economy Debt Taxation Public Opinion
  1. Trust in government is at a low point, leading to rising interest in unconventional solutions like DOGE. Many people feel frustrated watching how tax money is spent and wonder if their money is being used wisely.
  2. Americans are concerned about the growing national debt and fiscal mismanagement. This situation has made many people question value for money from the government.
  3. There is a feeling that after years of mishandled finances, radical changes like DOGE might be a necessary wake-up call. While its methods may be messy, it highlights the need for accountability and reform in government spending.

Top Links 621 The eclipse of the primary dealers. Trading real for bitcoin. A nightmare underground & the unconquered.

Chartbook • 300 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
💰 Finance Banking Investment Debt Trading Economics
  1. Primary dealers in finance are facing tough times managing a huge amount of government debt, which is pushing $50 trillion. This could change how they operate and their importance on Wall Street.
  2. There is a growing trend of people trading traditional currency for Bitcoin, indicating a shift in how we think about money. This could lead to big changes in the financial landscape.
  3. The concept of a 'nightmare underground' suggests that there are hidden issues or challenges in the financial world that need to be addressed. Recognizing these problems is essential for understanding the bigger picture.

Top Links 605 The story of FRED. Africa's looming debts. The world of copper & art in airports.

Chartbook • 429 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
💰 Finance Economics Debt Investments Market Trends Art market
  1. FRED is an important economic tool that helps track data over time, starting in the 1960s with economist Homer Jones. It shows how data can help understand the economy better.
  2. Africa is facing significant debt challenges, and awareness of these issues is crucial for global economic stability. It highlights the financial struggles many countries are experiencing.
  3. The connection between copper and art in airports showcases how different economic sectors can intersect. It's interesting to see how materials and art affect spaces we use every day.

Q4 NY Fed Report: Mortgage Originations by Credit Score, Delinquencies Increase, Foreclosures Remain Low

CalculatedRisk Newsletter • 57 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
💰 Finance Investments Banking Mortgages Debt Economics
  1. Mortgage originations are showing different credit scores now compared to the bubble years from 2003 to 2006. This means people with lower credit scores are getting mortgages now.
  2. Delinquencies on mortgages are increasing, which means more people are having trouble making their payments on time.
  3. Foreclosures are still low, which is good news as it suggests that despite the rising delinquencies, people are not losing their homes at a high rate.

Sunday Strip: The Platypus Conspiracy -

Who is Robert Malone • 37 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Elections Whistleblowing Debt
  1. Whistleblowers play an important role in exposing wrongdoings. John Kiriakou, a former CIA officer, believes it's crucial not to stay silent.
  2. The U.S. government is facing a significant debt crisis. Many think that if spending isn't controlled, it could lead to serious consequences for the country.
  3. The platypus is a unique animal that mixes features from different species. It's a fun reminder of how diverse nature can be.

Top Links 573 US bank failures. Gas-powered trucks. The Suriname debt crisis & the underground struggle in Colombia.

Chartbook • 500 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
💰 Finance Banking Debt Economics Investments Policy
  1. There have been 573 bank failures in the US, which is a significant number. This may affect the economy and people's trust in banking.
  2. Gas-powered trucks are still widely used, indicating ongoing reliance on fossil fuels. This might have implications for environmental discussions and policies.
  3. The Suriname debt crisis and struggles in Colombia show that economic challenges are not only local but also global. These situations need attention and understanding from a broader perspective.

Top Links 592 The upside of inflation. Warhammer and the British economy & the Cesarean boom.

Chartbook • 271 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
💰 Finance Economics Inflation Business Market Trends Debt
  1. Inflation can have positive effects on the economy. It's important to understand how it can sometimes benefit different sectors.
  2. The Warhammer gaming franchise is linked to the British economy in interesting ways. It shows how cultural phenomena can impact financial trends.
  3. There has been a rise in the rate of Cesarean births, often referred to as a boom. This trend raises questions about healthcare practices and preferences.

Update: The Housing Bubble and Mortgage Debt as a Percent of GDP

CalculatedRisk Newsletter • 129 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
💰 Finance Housing Market Debt Economic Trends Real Estate Mortgage
  1. There won't be a big drop in home prices because most people aren't selling under distress like before. Homeowners are in a better position now with more equity and low-rate mortgages.
  2. Mortgage debt is increasing, but not alarmingly. The current lending standards are stricter than during past bubbles, so it's less risky.
  3. Many new mortgages are going to borrowers with strong credit scores. This means that lending practices are healthy and borrowers are more qualified.

Media Notes

The Lens • 982 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
💰 Finance Economics Monetary Policy Inflation Interest Rates Debt
  1. Stephanie Kelton discusses alternative ways to handle inflationary pressures globally
  2. Central banks turning to rate hikes may not be the most effective solution for managing inflation
  3. Raising interest rates can have unintended consequences and may not always lead to desired outcomes

💥Lender on Lender Violence is Back! And on Steroids. Part III.💥

PETITION • 1002 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
💰 Finance Bankruptcy Investing Restructuring Debt Economy
  1. The article discusses recent bankruptcy cases involving companies like Wesco Aircraft Holdings Inc. and Instant Brands Acquisition Holdings Inc.
  2. The bankruptcy cases highlighted the complex interactions between lenders and debtors, showcasing the challenges and strategies involved in negotiations.
  3. Key themes in the cases include asset stripping, liability management, regulatory approval challenges, and the role of different parties in bankruptcy proceedings.

Second Thomas Shoal approaching a crisis?; Wang Yi to visit the US; Spy games intensify; Real estate, debt and stock market support; Malaise

Sinocism • 923 implied HN points • 24 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Crisis Real Estate Debt Stock Market
  1. PRC ships rammed Philippine vessels in South China Sea, escalation of crisis at Second Thomas Shoal
  2. Wang Yi visiting US, part of effort to have Xi Jinping attend APEC in San Francisco and meet with Biden
  3. Intensifying spy war between US and China, with recent revelations of alleged US spies and Five Eyes discussing threats from China

The debt explosion: How neoliberalism fuels debt crises

Geopolitical Economy Report • 558 implied HN points • 13 Jan 24
💰 Finance Debt Neoliberalism Economy Commercial Real Estate Banking
  1. Debt has surged globally due to neoliberal economics, leading to countless crises.
  2. The Federal Reserve's actions focus on bailing out the financial sector, even when it doesn't benefit the economy at large.
  3. The US economy is heavily dominated by finance, insurance, real estate, military, pharma, and tech sectors, all characterized by high levels of monopoly and rent-seeking behaviors.

The Monetary Event Horizon

The Dollar Endgame • 938 implied HN points • 08 Jul 23
💰 Finance Debt Economy Government Interest Rates
  1. The U.S. national debt is skyrocketing due to increased government spending, tax cuts, and economic events like the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a staggering $32.47 trillion in debt and a rapid increase of over $1 trillion in just 34 days.
  2. As the U.S. debt continues to grow, the country is possibly entering a debt spiral where borrowing becomes necessary to fulfill existing financial obligations, potentially leading to an annual interest payment of $1.6 trillion at a 5% rate and putting the nation at risk of financial instability.
  3. Rising interest rates and debt levels could push the U.S. Treasury towards insolvency, with potential consequences including inflation and the need for severe fiscal austerity measures to mitigate the crisis, a situation further complicated by complex economic feedback loops.

Genesis Wins Court Ruling to Sell Tranche of GBTC Shares

Bitcoin Magazine Pro • 432 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
💰 Finance Cryptocurrency Legal Market Investment Debt
  1. Genesis won a court ruling to sell millions of GBTC shares, aiming to reimburse creditors and stabilize Bitcoin's price.
  2. A large sale of GBTC triggered a market decline for both GBTC and Bitcoin in the past, causing concerns within the Bitcoin community.
  3. Despite legal disputes and setbacks, Genesis is moving forward with plans to sell GBTC to settle debts, potentially impacting Bitcoin's valuation.

Edging Armageddon

The Dollar Endgame • 758 implied HN points • 30 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Economics Finance Debt Legislation
  1. The debt ceiling is a legal cap on how much money the US government can borrow to pay for its expenses. It's a self-imposed limit to control borrowing.
  2. A US debt default would have severe global consequences like loss of confidence in US financial stability, spike in interest rates, and turmoil in financial markets.
  3. The recent debt limit deal promises two years of complete debt limit suspension until 2025, new spending caps, and potential removal of budgetary limits on government spending post-2025.

3 Ways out of our "Fiscal Death Spiral."

cryptoeconomy • 707 implied HN points • 08 Jul 23
💰 Finance Debt Inflation Taxation Government spending Economy
  1. There are 3 ways to escape the fiscal crisis: reduce spending, raise taxes heavily, or resort to printing more money.
  2. The increasing debt and interest payments are approaching unsustainable levels, potentially leading to historic inflation rates.
  3. Regardless of the chosen path, the final destination seems to be inflation as the most likely outcome of the fiscal crisis.

bankruptcy for the little people

Dan Davies - "Back of Mind" • 294 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
💰 Finance Bankruptcy Debt Legal system Corporations
  1. Bankruptcy rules differ for individuals and corporations, with implications for creditors and stakeholders.
  2. Bankruptcy can have significant economic consequences, especially for employees, suppliers, and other parties dependent on the company's operations.
  3. Some companies without operations can exploit bankruptcy laws to avoid liabilities, highlighting issues with the limited liability system.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 10.02.2025

steigan.no • 4 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Economy Debt Policy International relations
  1. The real US national debt might be over $158 trillion, far more than the official $36 trillion. This puts huge pressure on programs like Social Security and Medicare, warning that they could run out of funds in the near future.
  2. High and unpredictable electricity prices in Norway are partly due to Europe's move away from Russian gas, not just new power cables. This shift has serious implications for energy prices and policies.
  3. Many current European political debates could be better understood through psychology, as leaders seem to avoid confronting failures directly, instead focusing on less relevant issues.

Is neoliberalism really dead? Or does it live on like a zombie?

Geopolitical Economy Report • 318 implied HN points • 19 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Neoliberalism Debt Monopolies Globalization Cold War
  1. Neoliberalism continues to evolve and adapt, with different variations over the decades.
  2. Debt has played a significant role in the rise of neoliberalism, with exponential growth especially in the neoliberal era.
  3. The current global dynamics reflect a new Cold War, where neoliberalism faces off against alternative economic models represented by countries like China and Russia.

Spatial vs Temporal Externalities

Maximum Progress • 412 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
💼 Business Government intervention Externalities Debt Climate change
  1. Government intervention is effective in correcting externalities because it has a stake in the outcome.
  2. Governments struggle to address long-term externalities because they focus on short-term goals and lack incentives for future outcomes.
  3. Markets can incentivize individuals to consider future consequences, making them potentially more effective than governments in addressing temporal externalities.

Origins of debt: Michael Hudson reveals how financial oligarchies in Greece & Rome shaped our world

Geopolitical Economy Report • 458 implied HN points • 25 May 23
💾 History Debt Religion Global South Economic Systems
  1. Debt has a long history in shaping societies, from ancient Mesopotamia to Rome, and understanding this history can provide insights into modern debt-based economies.
  2. There have always been alternatives to the debt-centric economic models, with concepts like debt forgiveness and economic balance being seen as sacred in many ancient civilizations.
  3. US and other first-world countries should consider the moral implications of collecting debt from struggling Global South countries, especially when it's used to fuel conflicts and harm society.

Bonds are the Ultimate Shitcoin

The Dollar Endgame • 399 implied HN points • 17 Oct 23
💰 Finance Investing Economics Banking Debt Monetary Policy
  1. Bonds are facing significant challenges with the Federal Reserve's interest rate hikes and inflation, causing a major downturn in the bond market.
  2. Bonds are crucial in the financial system and act as a form of money, affecting various sectors like banking and exposing risks in durations and interest rate movements.
  3. The bond market's current struggles are indicative of larger economic issues, with potential consequences for inflation, debt, and decisions by the Federal Reserve.

NY Fed: Mortgage Originations by Credit Score, Delinquencies Increase, Foreclosures Remain Low

CalculatedRisk Newsletter • 43 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
💰 Finance Banking Mortgages Credit Economics Debt
  1. Mortgage originations are showing different trends based on credit scores compared to the years before the housing bubble. This means people's borrowing habits and qualifications might have changed significantly.
  2. Delinquencies on mortgages are increasing, which suggests that more people might be having trouble making their payments lately.
  3. Foreclosures are still low, meaning that even though some people are struggling to pay, many still manage to keep their homes and avoid losing them.