With just 10 days remaining until the U.S. government could default, President Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy have resumed direct negotiations to resolve the stalemate over the debt ceiling. While Biden and McCarthy appeared determined to project optimism publicly, they remained stuck on the same political differences. The Republicans seek deep cuts to federal programs, while Biden aims to target tax loopholes and raise rates on wealthy Americans. Failure to raise the debt ceiling could lead to a historic default, causing economic turmoil and potentially pushing the nation into recession. Wall Street analysts warn that investors may become increasingly nervous as the deadline approaches.