US margin debt surges 54%, approaching levels seen before prior market peaks
U.S. margin debt has risen 54% over the past year, a growth rate previously witnessed only near major market tops in 2000, 2007, and 2021. Excess margin growth now stands at 26%, close to its highest level since before the Global Financial Crisis.
U.S. margin debt increased 54% year-over-year, matching rates observed only around prior market peaks in 2000, 2007, and 2021. Excess margin growth climbed to 26%, near levels unseen since before the 2008 Global Financial Crisis.
This surge indicates investors are increasingly borrowing to chase equity gains. Historically, such elevated leverage has often preceded sharper market corrections as credit growth slows and margin calls amplify selling pressure.
Source: First Squawk