Canadian economy is vulnerable
Canada is extremely vulnerable right now.
It is one of the most indebted and overextended nations on the planet, rivaling the zombie economies of Japan and Greece. Unfortunately, outside of real estate the Canadian economy is concentrated in the financials, energy and materials industries. There is little to offset a household debt crisis, other than perhaps a weaker CAD helping promote exports.
Chart 1 shows household debt as a proportion of disposable income, comparing Canada with the US. Needless to say, if rates rise Canadian households are exposed.
Chart 2 combines all forms of private and public sector debt to show the total picture.
(Source: Acorn Macro Consulting)