Earthquake

Based on the WSO Dataset, there's a mention of an earthquake metaphorically in the context of the financial sector being hit hard, likened to a "9.0 on the Richter scale" due to the subprime loan crisis. This isn't about a literal earthquake but rather a significant financial shakeup that impacted the market deeply. The narrative describes how the crisis, primarily fueled by the defaulting of subprime loans disguised as high-quality investments, led to widespread fear and a substantial financial downturn. Despite the turmoil, it's noted that the financial system, with the aid of nearly a trillion dollars from the federal government, managed to absorb the shock, suggesting resilience amidst the chaos. This metaphorical use highlights the severity of the financial crisis and its earthquake-like impact on the economy.

Sources: THE NEXT CATASTROPHE, Q&A: Retired After a Career in Private Equity, Bonus hit and feeling... nothing?, Bonus hit and feeling... nothing?, Weird feeling