Home Value Investing Peak Margin Debt and Subsequent Returns

Peak Margin Debt and Subsequent Returns

When you purchase through our sponsored links, we may earn a commission. By using this website you agree to our T&Cs.

Peak Margin Debt and Subsequent Returns

By: greenbackd

Margin debt in the United States — money borrowed against securities in brokerage accounts — has risen to its highest level ever, at $384 billion, surpassing the previous peak of $381 billion set in July 2007 according to New York Times Business Day’s Off The Charts: Sign of Excess?. Margin debt as a proportion of GDP is not quite yet at the peak set in 2007, but it has exceeded 2.25% only twice previously in the last 50 years–2000 and 2007. The bottom panel shows that each of those instances was followed by a large drawdown:

NYT Margin Debt

Read Off The Charts: Sign of Excess?

Order Quantitative Value from Wiley Finance, Amazon, or Barnes and Noble.

Click here if you’d like to read more on Quantitative Value, or connect with me on LinkedIn.

h/t SD.

Our Editorial Standards

At ValueWalk, we’re committed to providing accurate, research-backed information. Our editors go above and beyond to ensure our content is trustworthy and transparent.

Greenbackd
Editor

Want Financial Guidance Sent Straight to You?

  • Pop your email in the box, and you'll receive bi-weekly emails from ValueWalk.
  • We never send spam — only the latest financial news and guides to help you take charge of your financial future.