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The Indicator from Planet Money · August 11, 2026 · 9m

Borrowing money to invest! What could go wrong?

The Indicator investigates the record high of margin debt, now over $1.5 trillion. They speak with Jurrien Timmer of Fidelity Investments about whether this surge in borrowed money for trading is a cause for concern. The episode explains how margin works and the potential risks to investors and markets. Timmer offers his personal views on the situation.

This summary was generated from show notes and public descriptions, not from a full transcript review. Details may contain inaccuracies.

Highlights

Margin debt hits record $1.5 trillion
The total amount of margin debt—money borrowed to invest—has reached an all-time high of over $1.5 trillion.
What could go wrong with record margin debt?
The Indicator explores whether the surge in margin borrowing is something to worry about.
How margin works
Margin allows investors to borrow money to increase their buying power, amplifying both gains and losses.
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