CBA Chart Book: Mixed Economic Signals in Q4 2025
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Consumer Bankers Association (CBA) released its Chart Book for the fourth quarter of 2025, revealing a mixed economic outlook. While consumer spending remains robust among high-income earners, it is slowing for middle- and low-income consumers. Defaults on credit cards, home equity lines of credit, and auto loans have remained stable, but consumer sentiment is low, and expenses are outpacing income for some households.
This report, the fifth iteration of the quarterly CBA Chart Book, provides a snapshot of data and resources related to the retail banking industry. It aims to equip industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders with insights into the evolving financial landscape.
Key Findings
Consumer Trends
Total consumer debt increased in the fourth quarter of 2025. Credit card balance growth is moderating, and a higher percentage of consumers are paying off their full balances monthly compared to pre-pandemic levels. Delinquencies in credit card and auto debt are relatively flat but remain above pre-pandemic benchmarks. Auto loan account numbers increased during the quarter.
Notably, student loan delinquencies continue to rise to record levels, driven by federal borrowers resuming repayment and falling behind on payments [1].
Minor Business Landscape
Small business loan demand remained flat compared to the third quarter, while reported credit quality experienced a slight decrease. SBA 7(a) loan volume remained steady, aligning with pre-pandemic averages after a period of elevated activity throughout 2024.
About the CBA Chart Book
The CBA Chart Book serves as a leading resource on consumer finance issues, published quarterly to inform retail banking professionals, policymakers, and other stakeholders about the forces shaping the industry. The latest edition is available here.
Looking Ahead
The CBA’s Q4 2025 Chart Book paints a picture of an economy with diverging trends. Strong spending by high-income consumers is offset by challenges faced by those with lower incomes, and rising student loan delinquencies present a growing concern. Continued monitoring of these trends will be crucial for navigating the evolving financial landscape.