The consumer isn’t cracking yet — but the math Is getting worse
- Posted on October 4, 2026
- By CNBC
- 11 Views
- 1 min read
In brief
Consumer spending patterns reveal mounting financial pressure as interest expenses surge dramatically. Rising from 1.5% to 2.5% of disposable income since 2021, households face intensifying debt servicing costs. While consumers maintain spending resilience, underlying economic stress indicators suggest vulnerability. The widening gap between income and interest obligations raises concerns about financial sustainability and potential demand contraction in coming months.
Summary auto-generated by AI from the original publisher's content. Editorial standards.
The consumer isn’t cracking yet — but the math Is getting worse
Interest is eating up about 2.5% of disposable income, up from 1.5% in 2021.
