Debt Slowdown Signals Possible Strain On Borrowers In April
New York reports an unusual April slowdown in consumer debt repayments. Analysts fear either statistical error or genuine financial strain as borrowers renegotiate or delay payments. Delinquencies rise and personal bankruptcies climb while overall debt from consumers grows by 25.8 billion and repayments by 21.7 billion. The piece notes tighter lending, higher rates, and looming elections as factors shaping the economy.