Rising Tide of Corporate Debt Defaults: An 80% Surge in 2023 Signals Troubling Trends Ahead

In 2023, corporate debt defaults experienced a substantial 80% increase, with 153 companies failing to meet their debt obligations, compared to 85 the previous year. This rate was the highest in seven years, excluding the peak during the Covid-19 crisis. The defaults were predominantly among low-rated companies with negative cash flows, heavy debt burdens, and weak liquidity, especially in the consumer-facing sectors, such as media and entertainment. According to S&P Global Ratings, the situation may remain challenging in 2024. Corporate America, currently shouldering a $13.7 trillion debt load, may face further credit deterioration, especially among lower-rated issuers. Despite potential rate cuts, financing costs are expected to stay high.

Michael Piccoini

Strategic Planning, Leadership & Analysis Professional with a background in healthcare, manufacturing and retail. I have a strong understanding of the complex world of revenue Management and how to make it more relevant, understandable, and actionable for executive leadership across all levels of an organization. My career has spanned several years at UnitedHealth Group, Inc. I obtained my B. Comm from the University of Windsor and MBA from Wayne State University