Americans are missing credit card payments at the highest rate in a decade

Americans are facing increasing challenges when it comes to paying off their credit card debt, as revealed in a recent report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. The study highlights that credit-card delinquency rates have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, with the share of balances 30 days past due reaching its highest point since late 2012. This trend marks a significant shift from the historically low delinquency rates observed in the second quarter of 2021.

The report suggests that this shift in behavior is indicative of “greater consumer fragility.” Notably, total revolving credit card balances have also risen from their pandemic lows, reflecting a shift towards higher credit card utilization. The share of accounts making full payments has decreased, driven by strong consumer spending and reduced government support. However, it remains relatively high compared to pre-pandemic levels.

In response to this deterioration, banks have started to grant fewer credit line increases and are more frequently reducing credit lines. The report highlights that approximately 10% of credit card accounts owe more than $5,000. This situation poses challenges for the average American, as rising prices in recent years, exacerbated by higher interest rates, have squeezed financial margins even further………[read more]

Rising Dough

How do the rising credit card delinquency rates and shifting consumer behavior impact businesses and the broader economy? What strategies can businesses employ to navigate these challenges while still catering to consumer demand for credit?