Consumer trends show shifts in payment methods and credit risks

Recent financial data highlights evolving consumer behaviors regarding payments and credit. In Argentina, the Central Bank's August 2026 Retail Payments Report indicates a significant shift, with QR code transactions increasing by 67.5% compared to the previous year. Conversely, credit card operations saw a 9.2% decline in July.

In the United States, Federal Reserve data regarding 'Buy Now, Pay Later' (BNPL) services reveals potential financial risks for users. Approximately 26% of BNPL users experienced at least one late payment within a 12-month period. Additionally, 11% of users reported that these installment payments led to bank overdraft or insufficient funds fees, even if the BNPL provider itself did not charge interest.