This seems hugely misleading as an economic barometer. Isn't it the case that real estate wealth was surging absurdly [in 2007], obscuring a rise in debt? If debt growth has leveled off, it seems like the story is Americans getting their shit together and stopping their debt accumulation, not "losing" bubble wealth. No?
//edit: 2010?? Did they forget to hit 'publish' when this was still timely?
//edit: 2010?? Did they forget to hit 'publish' when this was still timely?