Procyclical Feedback Loop

Dynamic

A procyclical feedback loop describes a self-reinforcing dynamic where market actions or policies amplify existing trends, leading to increased volatility or systemic risk. During economic expansions, easy credit and optimistic sentiment can fuel excessive risk-taking, which then amplifies growth. Conversely, during downturns, tightening credit and pessimistic sentiment can accelerate declines. In financial derivatives, this can manifest as margin calls during a downturn forcing selling, which further depresses prices. This dynamic exacerbates market movements.