Consumer Credit Usage & Delinquencies

Consumer Credit Usage & Delinquencies

Growth in consumer credit usage can boost spending, while rising delinquencies signal strain.

Consumer Credit Usage & Delinquencies chart

MonthValue
Sept 202546.87
Oct 202546.89
Nov 202548.36
Dec 202549.11
Jan 202649.84
Feb 202650.27

Market Significance and Investing Insights

Consumer credit usage represents household borrowing for consumption, such as credit cards or personal loans. Rising usage can support spending and economic growth, but it can also lead to higher leverage and vulnerability if incomes decline.

Increasing delinquencies signal that consumers are struggling to repay debts, which may lead lenders to tighten credit standards and slow economic activity. Falling delinquencies suggest healthier household finances and can support retail sales and discretionary sectors. Investors watch this indicator to gauge the health of the consumer and to anticipate shifts in companies exposed to consumer spending.

Extended Chart (6 Months Past & Future)