Why are Canadian insolvencies close to record highs?
Oct 12, 2024
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Doug Hoyes, a licensed insolvency trustee and co-founder of Hoyes Michael Associates, delves into Canada's rising consumer insolvency rates, nearing levels last seen during the 2008 crisis. He discusses the stark difference between insolvency and bankruptcy, and the critical role of consumer proposals. Hoyes emphasizes how high living costs, stagnant wages, and debt contribute to financial instability. He offers insights on recognizing warning signs and the importance of seeking help early to navigate financial challenges.
The significant rise in Canadian consumer insolvencies is primarily driven by soaring living costs, particularly in food and housing, outpacing stagnant income growth.
Proactive financial management, such as seeking additional work and consulting professionals early, can help individuals mitigate the risk of insolvency.
Deep dives
Understanding Consumer Insolvency
Consumer insolvency occurs when individuals are unable to pay their debts, manifesting in two primary ways: a cash flow issue or a situation where liabilities exceed assets. In Canada, consumers can either file for bankruptcy or propose a consumer proposal, wherein a debtor negotiates a repayment plan with creditors. This highlights the critical distinction that bankruptcy involves a formal legal process, unlike broader claims of insolvency. The current trend shows a significant rise in consumer insolvencies, which can largely be attributed to economic pressures such as rising costs and stagnant incomes.
The Economic Landscape of Insolvency
Recent data indicates that consumer insolvencies in Canada are on the rise, surpassing pre-pandemic levels but still below the 2008 financial crisis peak. Factors contributing to this increase include soaring living costs, particularly in food and housing, which have escalated faster than income growth. Anecdotal evidence suggests a large portion of the population lives on the financial edge, vulnerable to insolvency with even minor setbacks, such as missing a paycheck. Additionally, many are accruing debt in response to financial pressures, with credit card balances reaching historical highs.
Taking Proactive Steps Toward Financial Stability
Individuals facing potential insolvency should proactively assess their financial situations and consider strategies to bolster their income while reducing expenses. Seeking additional work or side hustles can help bridge the gap between income and rising costs, while cost-cutting measures might include downsizing living arrangements or changing transportation methods. It is advised that those experiencing difficulties reach out to financial professionals early on, as seeking help sooner can lead to better outcomes. Financial health is influenced by a lagging effect, meaning that early intervention can often prevent more severe issues down the line.
This episode first aired on October 10, 2024 over at In This Economy?!, our sister show at the Frequency Podcast Network. The show helps Canadians understand the systems behind their money problems so they can make informed decisions about their personal finances. If you like what you hear, please consider giving us a follow!
New data shows that consumer insolvency rates in Canada are approaching highs not seen since the financial crisis of 2008-09. Why are so many Canadians going broke? Will falling interest rates help change that? How can you tell if you're dangerously close to the edge, and what should you do about it if you are? We speak to licensed insolvency trustee, Doug Hoyes, to help understand the rising numbers and current options.
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