Law.com Subscribers SAVE 30%

Call 855-808-4530 or email [email protected] to receive your discount on a new subscription.

Inflation, Interest Rates, and Already-Increasing Commercial Bankruptcy Filings

By Erich N. Durlacher
November 01, 2022

Inflation has been running red hot in 2022. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 0.4% in September on a seasonally-adjusted basis, which amounts to an 8.2% year-over-year increase since September 2021 before seasonal adjustment. See, https://bit.ly/3SkraQf (site last visited 10/17/22). The sharpest increases have been in the shelter, food, and medical care indexes. Id. The 4.9% decrease in the gasoline index provided welcome relief at the pump, but was not enough to offset the increases in the other indices. Id. At the same time, the Federal Reserve is doing its best to cool off the economy without pushing the country (and, the world) into recession — the mythical "soft landing." In 2022, the Federal Reserve has already raised the federal funds rate five times for a total of 300 bps. See, https://nyfed.org/3EXm9dk (site last visited 10/17/22). The last three increases have been 75 bps each. Id. This comes after nearly two years of the Federal Funds Rate hovering around 0%. Id.

It does not take a Ph.D. in economics to measure the impact of these financial pressures. Surging demand, supply chain snags, and rising rates and prices can be felt in real time when you order groceries, go to a restaurant, or make retail purchases. It is no surprise that the consumer sentiment index is down 16.6% from a year ago. See, http://www.sca.isr.umich.edu/ (site last visited 10/17/22). More troubling, 98% of U.S. CEO's in a recent survey said they are preparing for a U.S. recession and 99% are preparing for an E.U. recession. See, https://bit.ly/3EUuvCF (site last visited 10/17/22).

Given this economic turbulence and pessimism, it is not surprising that commercial bankruptcy rates have started to tick upwards in third quarter of 2022. While commercial filings are still lagging 2021 on a year-to-date basis, the filings have increased in September for a second consecutive month and represent a significant increase when compared to last September (16% increase compared to September 2021). See, https://bit.ly/3SneJmK (site last visited 10/17/22).

This premium content is locked for Entertainment Law & Finance subscribers only

  • Stay current on the latest information, rulings, regulations, and trends
  • Includes practical, must-have information on copyrights, royalties, AI, and more
  • Tap into expert guidance from top entertainment lawyers and experts

For enterprise-wide or corporate acess, please contact Customer Service at [email protected] or 877-256-2473

Read These Next
Bonus Content: How Emerging Technologies Are Impacting IP: A Chat With Legalweek Speaker Ryan Phelan Image

A Q&A with conference speaker Ryan Phelan, a partner at Marshall, Gerstein & Borun and founder and moderator of legal blog PatentNext, to discuss how courts and jurisdictions are handling novel technologies, the copyrightability of AI-assisted art, and more.

Overview of Regulatory Guidance Governing the Use of AI Systems In the Workplace Image

Businesses have long embraced the use of computer technology in the workplace as a means of improving efficiency and productivity of their operations. In recent years, businesses have incorporated artificial intelligence and other automated and algorithmic technologies into their computer systems. This article provides an overview of the federal regulatory guidance and the state and local rules in place so far and suggests ways in which employers may wish to address these developments with policies and practices to reduce legal risk.

Is Google Search Dead? How AI Is Reshaping Search and SEO Image

This two-part article dives into the massive shifts AI is bringing to Google Search and SEO and why traditional searches are no longer part of the solution for marketers. It’s not theoretical, it’s happening, and firms that adapt will come out ahead.

While Federal Legislation Flounders, State Privacy Laws for Children and Teens Gain Momentum Image

For decades, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act has been the only law to expressly address privacy for minors’ information other than student data. In the absence of more robust federal requirements, states are stepping in to regulate not only the processing of all minors’ data, but also online platforms used by teens and children.

Revolutionizing Workplace Design: A Perspective from Gray Reed Image

In an era where the workplace is constantly evolving, law firms face unique challenges and opportunities in facilities management, real estate, and design. Across the industry, firms are reevaluating their office spaces to adapt to hybrid work models, prioritize collaboration, and enhance employee experience. Trends such as flexible seating, technology-driven planning, and the creation of multifunctional spaces are shaping the future of law firm offices.