Household debt increased in the third quarter but is lower than the previous estimate for quarter two.
Household debt increased in the third quarter but is lower than the previous estimate for quarter two. Figures from Statistics Canada show that the Q3 average household debt rose to 162.6 per cent of income; although the Q2 figure was revised down to 161.5 per cent from 163.6 per cent. The figures include mortgage debt and some experts believe that the home loan portion of household debt should not be considered overly risky. Others are concerned that the eventual interest rate rises will make repayments unaffordable for an increasing percentage of households. Spending on automobiles and other borrowing is also on the increase and there has been speculation that the auto loans market in particular could be vulnerable.
