Credit card debt surges to another record high, New York Fed data shows
Published On Nov 14, 2024, 5:25 AM
Recent data from the New York Federal Reserve reported that American credit card debt has reached a record high of $1.17 trillion, growing by $24 billion in just one quarter. Overall household debt also surged to $17.94 trillion. Although incomes have risen faster than debt on an aggregate level, researchers expressed concern about increasing delinquency rates, especially among younger demographics, despite a slight drop in overall credit card delinquency rates to 8.8%. Higher inflation and interest rates are contributing to these increased figures.
Stock Forecasts
XLF
Negative
The report indicates an increase in credit risk for lenders given the rising delinquency rates in credit cards and auto loans. Companies in the finance and credit sector may face headwinds due to higher default rates, which could impact profitability.
RTH
Negative
The tightening of consumer credit could lead to reduced spending in the economy, notably affecting sectors reliant on discretionary spending. Retail stocks may be negatively impacted by the prevalent financial strain on consumers.
SYF
Negative
Lenders specializing in high-yield loans or credit cards may see an initial uptick in revenue from higher interest rates but may ultimately face losses from defaulted loans. This situation could pose risks for companies focused heavily on personal financing.
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