Rising U.S. Credit Card Delinquencies In Context

US household credit card balances fell to $1.25 trillion in Q1 from Q4 2025’s record $1.28 trillion.[i] But celebrations of Americans’ fiscal rectitude in the quarter didn’t lead headlines. What did? 90-day credit card delinquency rates hit 13.1%, their highest level in 15 years. No doubt more folks are feeling financial stress, and we are sympathetic to their plight. But to gauge market effects, you must look higher level. Put the present situation in perspective, and fears that consumers are tapped out look overwrought. Read Full Article »