The Indicator from Planet Money The Indicator from Planet Money

Borrowing money to invest! What could go wrong?

Aug 11, 2026 · 9m

Summary

This episode examines the risks of margin trading, highlighted by record U.S. debt levels and a recent crash in South Korea’s semiconductor stocks. Hosts discuss how leveraged ETFs and margin calls forced young investors to sell, amplifying losses despite strong company fundamentals. The segment explores whether the Federal Reserve should intervene by adjusting margin requirements to prevent a similar U.S. bubble burst.

Topics discussed

Intro: Margin trading basics and record US debt levels Sponsors: Insperity, Dell, and BetterHelp Margin debt exceeds credit card debt; risks of forced selling India study: Margin trading amplifies market crashes South Korea: Leveraged ETFs and semiconductor boom Korean market crash: Margin calls hit young investors hard US context: Fed's role in regulating margin requirements Why the Fed likely won't intervene in current market Outro: Betting on UFC fights with borrowed money Credits and production team Sponsors: Insperity and Capella University
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