Consumer lending

Mainstream lenders have long been reluctant to make short-term consumer loans because the costs involved make them expensive for borrowers. Upstart says its technology will enable partner banks to offer loans at annual percentage rates below 36%.

U.S. consumers’ card debt, which fell sharply last year, has now climbed for two consecutive quarters. The upcoming holiday shopping season will signal how quickly borrowing will return to 2019 levels.

On Jun. 30, 2021. Dollars in thousands.

On Jun. 30, 2021. Dollars in thousands.

Accrue Savings is introducing a savings account that is tied to specific retailers, allowing customers to gradually accumulate the amount they need to buy an item and earn cash rewards for making progress toward their goals.

A partisan split at a congressional hearing offered a preview of coming regulatory debates over the nascent sector. One key question is whether the consumer bureau will impose ability-to-repay requirements on installment lenders.

The relaxation of Community Reinvestment Act and fair-lending enforcement by the OCC after President Trump took office deprived minority and low-income applicants in Memphis who sought credit from the bank for far too long.

Steve Steinour, the Ohio bank’s CEO, said the slowdown in car manufacturing due to the global chip shortage will continue to stifle loan demand in the months ahead.

The card network is working with new partners such as FIS and Moneris to connect banks, fintechs and merchants on its Visa Installments Solution platform. Its goal is to provide access to a broader spectrum of consumers than these companies can reach in one-off deals, CEO Al Kelly said.

Trustmark Bank agreed to pay $9 million to resolve allegations that it discriminated against Black and Hispanic residents in Memphis, Tennessee. Attorney General Merrick Garland said the Department of Justice and other agencies will continue their crackdown.