In a Financial Crisis, asset prices see a steep decline in value, businesses and consumers are unable to pay their debts, and financial institutions experience liquidity shortages. This can have wide-reaching consequences for the economy as a whole.For example, during the Great Recession of 2007-2009, unemployment rates skyrocketed as businesses closed their doors and laid off workers. The housing market also collapsed as people were unable to afford mortgages or sell their homes. Ultimately, the crisis led to significant declines in GDP growth and an increase in government debt levels.