U.S. High Yield Credit Spreads and Recessions

U.S. High Yield Credit Spreads and Recessions U.S. high-yield credit spreads in April 2025 show little sign of recession fears, remaining well below levels observed during previous downturns. Image: Deutsche Bank

Junk and Investment Grade Credit Spreads

Junk and Investment Grade Credit Spreads Corporate bond yield spreads are often used as a gauge of financial market stress. They can provide insights into the likelihood of an economic downturn, but they are not foolproof predictors. Image: Real Investment Advice

U.S. High Yield Credit Spreads vs. VIX

U.S. High Yield Credit Spreads vs. VIX High-yield credit spreads have widened by over 150bps from their 17-year lows, signaling growing financial stress. While rising credit spreads have often been a precursor to recessions, they can sometimes lead to false signals. Image: Topdown Charts

U.S. IG Credit Spread

U.S. IG Credit Spread U.S. investment-grade credit spreads have reached their lowest point since 2005, reflecting growing investor sentiment and confidence in future economic conditions. Image: Deutsche Bank

Credit Spreads and U.S. Labor Market

Credit Spreads and U.S. Labor Market Despite the Fed’s support, credit spreads remain above their pre-COVID-19 levels and may be taking a cue from the U.S. labor market. Image: Morgan Stanley Wealth Management

VIX vs. IG Credit Spread and S&P 500

VIX vs. IG Credit Spread and S&P 500 This chart shows that the VIX has realigned with the IG credit spread, but not with the S&P 500. Image: Deutsche Bank

Credit Spreads on High-Quality U.S. Corporates

Credit Spreads on High-Quality U.S. Corporates Credit spreads on high-quality U.S. corporates are widening and are flashing a warning sign for markets. Image: Gavekal, Macrobond

A Widening of High Yield Credit Spreads Is Very Useful to Predict a Recession

A Widening of High Yield Credit Spreads Is Very Useful to Predict a Recession Like a yield curve inversion and real interest rates above real GDP, a widening of high yield credit spreads is very useful to predict a recession. At the present time, the bond market is not concerned about credit risk.