Battleangel

At least among developed countries. Doesn’t look good no matter how much you spin it.

CNN - Americans are among the world’s most cash-strapped people, according to the latest semi-annual survey from ACNielsen released Tuesday.

Nearly a quarter (22 percent) of Americans have no money left once they’ve paid for their essential living expenses and spent their discretionary dollars. That puts the United States at the top of a list of 42 countries for saving futility. The United States is neck and neck with Portugal.

“Americans are legendary for incurring debt,” said Tom Markert, Nielsen’s chief marketing officer.

Also on CNN Money: Americans have never had it so hard financially