# Global warnings on credit card debt and spending habits > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/global-warnings-on-credit-card-debt-and-spending-habits > Updated: 2026-09-12T14:01:56.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. Financial experts and economists are warning of the risks associated with credit card debt and unsustainable spending habits. In the United States, data indicates that over 40% of cardholders routinely pay only the minimum balance, a figure that rises to 58% among Gen Z consumers. Experts note that relying on minimum payments can lead to decades of debt due to high interest rates, describing it as a “debt management strategy” rather than a true repayment strategy. Additionally, the rise of “vibe spending”—purchases driven by emotional states like stress or boredom—is contributing to budget inflation. In Turkey, economist Prof. Dr. Emre Alkin has echoed these concerns, warning against the “debt spiral” that occurs when spending exceeds income. Alkin advises consumers to treat credit limits as tools rather than personal funds and emphasizes that making only minimum payments as a long-term habit creates a dangerous cycle of high interest. He stresses that financial literacy is essential to prevent credit instruments from causing significant financial harm. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-12: Economist Emre Alkin warns of credit card debt spirals Economist Emre Alkin warns against credit card debt spirals, advising consumers to avoid relying on minimum payments and to ensure spending aligns strictly with current income. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/economist-emre-alkin-warns-of-credit-card-debt-spirals ### 2026-09-06: Financial experts warn against credit card debt and emotional spending Experts warn against risky financial habits, including the prevalence of minimum credit card payments in the US and the rise of “vibe spending,” where emotional states drive impulsive consumer purchases. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/financial-experts-warn-against-credit-card-debt-and-emotional-spending --- Cite as: Global warnings on credit card debt and spending habits. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/global-warnings-on-credit-card-debt-and-spending-habits