Corporate bankruptcies in the U.S. have reached their highest level in 14 years.At least 686 companies filed for bankruptcy in 2024, an 8% increase from the previous year.Last year saw an increase in out-of-court maneuvers to prevent bankruptcies, outnumbering actual bankruptcies by two to one.High profile bankruptcies included Party City, Tupperware, Red Lobster, Avon, and Spirit Airlines, reflecting weakened consumer demand.