This trend is a cause for concern, as it suggests that consumers are struggling to manage their debt.
The Rise of Consumer Debt
Consumer debt has been on the rise for several years, and the latest numbers are alarming. The total amount of consumer debt in the United States has surpassed $2.5 trillion, with serious delinquencies reaching almost two per cent. This trend is not limited to the United States; many countries are experiencing similar issues.
Key Statistics
The Causes of Consumer Debt
There are several factors contributing to the rise of consumer debt. Some of the most significant causes include:
The Impact of Inflation on Canadians
Inflation has been a persistent issue in Canada, with prices rising steadily over the past few years. The effects of inflation are far-reaching, and it’s not just the cost of living that’s affected.
Consumers are struggling to manage their finances, leading to a rise in missed credit card payments.
The Rise of Missed Payments
The third quarter of this year saw a significant increase in missed credit card payments, with 1.3 million consumers failing to make their payments on time. This represents a 10.6 per cent increase over the same period last year, highlighting the growing trend of consumers struggling to manage their finances.
Factors Contributing to the Rise
Several factors are contributing to the rise in missed payments. These include:
The Impact on Credit Scores
Missed payments can have a significant impact on credit scores. A single missed payment can lower a consumer’s credit score by up to 60 points, depending on the credit scoring model used. Repeated missed payments can lead to a significant decline in credit scores, making it more difficult for consumers to obtain credit in the future.
The Consequences of Missed Payments
Missed payments can have serious consequences for consumers, including:
The average cost of a new car is around $40,000, and the average loan amount for a new car is around $28,000.
