Average credit card balances missing two or more payments increase

New analysis by FICO have indicated that the average balances on credit card accounts missing two or more payments are increasing.

Analysis of card trends for December 2020 presents a mixed picture of UK consumer financial stability. Some of the data suggests that credit card users are managing their finances prudently, but where there is already pressure on finances, the reliance on credit cards is increasing. 

The company says that the inevitable Christmas spending increased, albeit at lower levels than in 2019. But rising balances for accounts missing two or more payments are ringing alarm bells.

Stacey West, Principal Consultant for FICO Advisors said “The big concern for lenders will be that we are seeing further growth in the percentage of balances with two missed payments, which is the opposite of the normal December trend.’

“This is driven by accounts opened more than one year. The average balance on these accounts increased in December to an over two-year high, up £118 month-on-month and £392 year-on-year. For three missed payments the month-on-month growth was £112 and is £486 higher than December 2019. ‘

“Our data is showing that average balances of consumers missing payments continue to rise at a noticeable pace. Lenders should be identifying consumers with higher-than-ever debt levels and starting a conversation about their financial status in advance of any payment issues.”

Average spending on UK credit cards increased in December – by £25 to £663. It is, however, 4.9 percent lower than in December 2019. But there is still uncertainly about how much furlough payments and payment holidays gave some consumers the confidence to spend more than they can afford to repay. 

West continued “Average credit card spend normally falls in January and it is anticipated this year will be no different.”

“We just have to see how much the current conditions will impact that downward trend.”

Reflecting the mixed picture of consumer finances, the percentage of payments to balance started to increase again in December, reaching over a two-year high, although it is still 9.5 percent lower than December 2019.