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Debts, What Are They?

Debt is something that is owed. An individual or business owing a debt is called a debtor. The entity to whom a debt is owed is called a creditor. Debt is used to borrow purchasing power with a promise to repay at some point in the future. Many businesses use debt as a part of their overall corporate finance strategy.

Some types of debt

There are unlimited types of debt obligations. They include but are not limited to mortgages, auto loans, student loans, credit cards and promissory notes. Most people borrow a large sum for major purchases, such as a mortgage or car loan, and they repay it with at an agreed upon interest rate over time or all at once at an agreed date (balloon payment). The total amount of money outstanding is normally called a debt. The debt will increase overtime due to interest accruing. In many systems of economics this effect is termed usury, in others, the term “usury” refers only to an excessive rate of interest, in excess to a reasonable profit for the risk accepted (think payday loans).

Larger companies can issue debt in the form of securities, known as bonds. Each bond entitles the holder to specific interest and principal payments. Bonds are traded in the bond markets, and depending on the rating are relatively safe investments in comparison to stocks.

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