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What the “recession” is doing to our credit card habits

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Despite a series of interest rate hikes aimed at curbing inflation, consumers have displayed remarkable resilience.

However, recent indications suggest a shift in their spending habits.

Jack Kleinhenz, the Chief Economist of the National Retail Federation (NRF), points out that consumers are still purchasing more than they were last year. Nevertheless, there is a noticeable slowdown in spending growth as the economy stabilizes.

Kleinhenz elaborated on this observation in the August edition of NRF’s Monthly Economic Review, stating, “There are ongoing economic challenges and questions, and the pace of consumer spending growth is becoming incrementally slower.”

Over the past year, credit card debt reached a record high, while the personal savings rate declined. According to a report from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, credit card balances for Americans soared to an all-time high of $1 trillion this year.

However, revolving debt, primarily composed of credit card balances, contracted in June, as reported by the Fed’s G.19 consumer credit report earlier this month.

Bank of America’s recent consumer checkpoint noted that after a robust start to the year, credit and debit card spending began to slow in the spring.

Slight increase

In July, total card spending registered only a 0.1% year-over-year increase after three consecutive months of year-over-year declines. This slight improvement was partly attributed to Fourth of July sales, Amazon Prime Day, and “Barbenheimer.”

As interest rates continue to climb, households are feeling the financial strain, leading consumers to reduce their reliance on credit cards for purchases, according to Kleinhenz. Currently, the average credit card interest rate stands at over 20%, reaching an all-time high.

NRF’s President and CEO, Matt Shay, mentioned on “Squawk Box” that spending habits are evolving. Consumers are now seeking value and focusing more on essentials, rather than discretionary purchases. He remarked, “Things have changed.”

While consumers are still in a favorable financial position and continue to spend, Shay noted that their spending patterns have shifted away from those observed 18, 12, or 24 months ago.

“A consumer spending slowdown is inevitable,” asserted Matt Schulz, Chief Credit Analyst at LendingTree. He emphasized that consumers face several significant challenges, including the impending resumption of student loan payments this fall, which will serve as a substantial test.

Schulz pointed out the uncertainty surrounding the future of card spending. It could either surge if people rely on credit cards to make ends meet or contract further if borrowers cut back on discretionary expenses such as travel and dining out.

As economists suggest a ‘soft landing’ for the economy, consumers are advised to remain vigilant and adapt to changing financial circumstances.

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RBA unexpectedly keeps interest rates steady at 3.85%

RBA surprises with decision to maintain interest rates at 3.85%, impacting economic forecasts and housing market activity.

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RBA surprises with decision to maintain interest rates at 3.85%, impacting economic forecasts and housing market activity.

In Short:
The Reserve Bank of Australia has kept its cash rate at 3.85% despite concerns from the Housing Industry Association about its impact on new home construction. Although inflation is within target and there’s some market confidence, households are under financial strain amidst economic uncertainties.

The Reserve Bank of Australia has decided to maintain the cash rate at 3.85% following a split vote of six to three. This unexpected decision comes as the Housing Industry Association warns that these rates remain restrictive, potentially hindering new home building.

Senior economist Tom Devitt stated that the rates will delay necessary building activity but noted improved market confidence following previous rate cuts.

Current inflation data shows the RBA’s preferred measure has been declining and remains within the target range. However, household spending is under strain, with Australia experiencing a per capita recession since mid-2022.

Labour costs

The RBA’s decision was influenced by concerns over productivity growth and high unit labour costs, affecting its inflation outlook. While some economists anticipated a rate cut, the RBA opted for caution due to economic uncertainties, both domestically and internationally.

The bank acknowledged gradual recovery in private demand and household incomes but highlighted ongoing challenges in passing cost increases to final prices.

Despite the hold on rates, price rises in essentials like petrol continue to impact Australian households. The RBA emphasized the need for ongoing assessment before making future rate changes, suggesting a careful approach in response to evolving economic conditions.

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Feeling the stress this tax season?

Join Dr. Steve Enticott for essential tax tips to avoid costly mistakes this season and maximize deductions for 2025.

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Join Dr. Steve Enticott for essential tax tips to avoid costly mistakes this season and maximise deductions for 2025.


It’s that time of year again, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone.

With so many moving parts, from missed deductions to misplaced receipts, small mistakes can lead to big losses.

Dr Steve Enticott from CIA Tax joins to break down what people forget most, which new deductions to know for 2025, and why a simple checklist can save you money.

#TaxTime #MoneyTips #2025Tax #TaxReturn #TickerNews

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Trump’s ‘big beautiful bill’ passes Senate

Trump’s tax and spending bill passes Senate 51-50; faces House vote amid concerns over inequality and support cuts.

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Trump’s tax and spending bill passes Senate 51-50; faces House vote amid concerns over inequality and support cuts.


President Trump’s sweeping tax and spending bill has narrowly passed the U.S. Senate 51-50, with Vice-President JD Vance breaking the tie.

The bill promises big tax breaks, military boosts, and immigration crackdowns, while slashing support for Medicaid and low-income aid, a move critics say risks deepening inequality.

All eyes now turn to the House vote, where Trump’s political clout will face a fresh test.

#Trump #BigBeautifulBill #USPolitics #TickerNews

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