US Corporate Bankruptcies Surge to 15-Year High

Corporate bankruptcies in the US are rising sharply, sending a warning signal about stress in the broader economy. In 2025 so far, 717 large US companies have filed for bankruptcy — the highest number seen in the last 15 years.

This figure has already crossed every full-year total since 2010 and marks the third consecutive annual increase. Compared with 2022, large-company bankruptcies are up by a steep 93%, highlighting how financial pressure has intensified.

Monthly Filings Remain Elevated

The pace of bankruptcies has stayed consistently high month after month. In November alone, 62 companies filed for bankruptcy, following 68 filings in October and 66 in September. Overall, 2025 filings are running about 30% above the average seen during 2011–2024.

Stress Beyond the AI Sector

The stress is not limited to any single industry and is largely outside the AI-driven trade. Even well-established and large firms are struggling to manage high costs, debt burdens, and slower demand.

Current bankruptcy levels are now consistent with recession-like conditions in the US economy, raising concerns about corporate health and future growth.