By analyzing the alarming increase in corporate debt, with a particular focus on the Italian, American, and French contexts, the article shows how rising debt affects the economic and capital position of companies, jeopardizing their ability to self-finance and to access new financing. The risks and benefits of possible financial solutions for distressed companies, including factoring and private loans, are assessed. Finally, the future of corporate financing structures is considered, expressing uncertainty about the possibility of a rapid reversal of current trends.