Credit Crunch

What does it Mean? An economic condition where investment capital is difficult to obtain. Banks and investors become wary of lending funds to corporations, thereby driving up the price of debt products for borrowers.
Investopedia Says... Credit crunches are usually considered to be an extension of recessions. A credit crunch makes it nearly impossible for companies to borrow because lenders are scared of bankruptcies or defaults, which results in higher rates. The consequence is a prolonged recession (or slower recovery), which occurs as a result of the shrinking credit supply.

Terms Related Links

Bankruptcy
Debt
Default Risk
Economy
Interest Rate
Recession
Term Auction Facility - TAF

Terms Related Links
How does a credit crunch occur?

The Lost Decade: Lessons From Japan's Real Estate Crisis - Find out what America can learn from Japan's liquidity trap and credit crunch.

The Fuel That Fed The Subprime Meltdown - Take a look at the factors that caused this market to flare up and burn out.

Special Feature: Subprime Mortgages - Your one-stop shop on everything you need to know about subprime mortgages and the subprime meltdown that ensued.

Taking Advantage Of Corporate Decline - A bankrupt company can provide great opportunities for savvy investors.

Five Strategies For Surviving Tough Times - Cruise through a slowing economy - even when others are going off the rails.

High Yield, Or Just High Risk? - Despite their reputation, the debt securities known as "junk bonds" may actually reduce risk in your portfolio.

Junk Bonds: Everything You Need to Know - Don't be fooled by the name - junk bonds may be for you if you know how to analyze them.

What Is A Corporate Credit Rating? - For investors considering buying debt securities, a credit rating is an essential tool.




add investopedia foot
www.investopedia.com