What are default rates?

Default rates refer specifically to the percentage of borrowers who fail to meet their debt obligations by not making timely payments on their loans. This metric is crucial for lenders as it reflects the overall risk associated with lending to consumers or businesses. A high default rate can indicate economic distress or poor creditworthiness among borrowers, which could lead to tighter lending standards and higher interest rates for all borrowers. Understanding default rates helps financial institutions assess risk and make more informed lending decisions. Moreover, these rates can influence broader market trends, including interest rates and lending practices, as they signal the health of the credit environment.