This paper analyzes the incidence of domestic and external debt crises for a sample of 53 emerging economies between 1980 and 2005. Even though there is substantial time variation in the default rates during the period, sovereign default rates for domestic debts are typically lower than those...

The quadrupling of oil prices since the end of 1973 was accompanied by a rapid increase in the borrowings of developing countries. A global view of their external debt situation reveals some alarming realities.

This Feature considers the debts of quasi-sovereign states in light of proposals to let them file for bankruptcy protection. States that have ceded some but not all sovereign prerogatives to a central government face distinct challenges as debtors. It is unhelpful to analyze these challenges...

Bankruptcy gives individuals a fresh start by allowing them to discharge much of their unsecured debt. But the consequences of bankruptcy do not end when the legal process is complete. After bankruptcy, families still must figure out how to make ends meet and how to interact with the credit...

Section 1129(b)(1) of the Bankruptcy Code codifies a principle known as the 'absolute priority rule.' The absolute priority rule requires that creditors be provided for in full before holders of equity can receive or retain any property under a plan of reorganization. The absolute priority rule...