Why is Gen Z's credit score dropping?

Student loan restarts, job losses, and delinquencies—down to 678 average, lowest around.

Should Gen Z get a new credit card right now?

Only if you pay in full monthly. Otherwise, it's a 25%+ APR trap in this economy.

How do credit card companies profit from Gen Z?

Lifetime customer value—hook 'em young, profit from houses and 401(k)s later, risks be damned.

Gen Z's Credit Card Frenzy: Desperation or Long Game?

Your 20-something kid just got laid off? They're not cutting lattes—they're maxing a new credit card. Gen Z's diving headfirst into debt as a lifeline.

Fintech Dose Apr 11, 2026 4 min read

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Young adults swiping credit cards in a precarious economy, scores slipping

⚡ Key Takeaways

Gen Z opened credit cards at highest rates despite scores dropping to 678. 𝕏
Banks chase young customers for long-term profits, ignoring short-term risks. 𝕏
Echoes 2008 subprime: teaser credit could lead to a Gen Z debt crisis. 𝕏

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Fintech Dose

Markets. Money. Innovation.

#FICO report #Gen Z credit #credit card debt #credit scores #student loans

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Originally reported by Payments Journal

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