
Economic Growth and Consumer Debt: A Delicate Balance
The economy expanded at 4.9% in the third quarter, fueled by robust consumer spending, even as savings dipped below pre-pandemic levels. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York's report highlights a 1.3% increase in household debt, reaching $17.29 trillion. Notably, credit card debt jumped to $1.08 trillion, a significant rise attributed to heightened spending and real GDP growth. With delinquency rates creeping up, especially among those in their thirties, and higher borrowing costs affecting the housing market, the financial landscape is complex. As debt servicing consumes more income, the potential for economic slowdown looms, presenting both challenges and opportunities for prudent financial management and preparation for the next economic phase.