In cross-sectional data sets from ten credit markets, we find that middle-aged adults borrow at lower interest rates and pay fewer fees relative to younger and older adults. Fee and interest payments are minimized around age 53. The measured effects are not explained by observed risk...

subsequent to an oil price increase.

productivity is lower, as in the data. Quantitatively, larger idiosyncratic shocks can explain: (1) 5 percent of the reduction in total GDP volatility since the mid 1980s; (2) more than one half of the reduction in the volatility of household investment; (3) the sharp decline in the correlation...