Economic trends show rising debt reliance in Greece and US shift to short-term borrowing

Economic indicators in Greece and the United States reveal significant shifts in debt management and cost pressures. In Greece, the European Consumer Payment Report 2026 by Intrum shows that 60% of consumers used credit cards or loans to pay bills in the last six months, a higher rate than the European average of 56%. Additionally, 37% of Greeks reported delaying at least one payment in the past year. The use of ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ services has reached 47% of the population.

Greek businesses are facing rising costs due to energy, transport, and raw material price hikes, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Meanwhile, political discussions in Greece focus on reducing fuel taxes and addressing pharmaceutical sustainability issues, specifically regarding the ‘clawback’ mechanism and patient access to innovation.

In the United States, the federal government is shifting toward short-term debt to manage rising fiscal needs. Major banks, including Bank of America and JPMorgan, predict significant increases in Treasury bill issuances, which could reach over $1 trillion annually, increasing exposure to refinancing risks as the government seeks to cover its growing debt obligations.