TEST – The Latest Personal Loan News and Trends
The Latest Personal Loan News and Trends
As of March 17, 2026
- Personal loan usage continues to climb as consumers seek flexibility. About 38% of U.S. consumers now have a personal loan, according to Experian data, a share that has increased steadily since 2017. Growth is driven in part by demand for flexible, lump-sum financing as other payment options evolve.
- Loan rates remain elevated, but are still far below credit card rates. The average personal loan interest rate is 11.65%, up from 8.73% in 2022, according to Federal Reserve data, reflecting the broader impact of higher Fed rates. While borrowing costs remain elevated, personal loans are still typically cheaper than credit cards.
- Record-high credit card APRs are fueling debt consolidation demand. With average credit card APRs reaching 19.2%, according to Curinos data, more consumers are turning to personal loans to consolidate high-interest balances and lower their overall borrowing costs.
- Loan balances are stabilizing as lenders prioritize risk management. The average personal loan balance is about $19,300, according to Experian, which is relatively unchanged in recent years despite rising usage. This suggests lenders are maintaining tighter underwriting standards as delinquencies rise in some segments.
View the best personal loans for 2026 to see what you're likely to qualify for, and the rates and terms you might get.
The Latest Savings News and Trends
As of March 17, 2026
- The Federal Reserve pauses rate changes. The Fed hasn't yet raised or lowered its benchmark rate in 2026, keeping savings and CD yields relatively stable for now.
- Top yields remain elevated. The best CDs and savings accounts are offering APYs around 4%, though rates have edged down from their 2024-2025 peaks.
- Potential yield dips are something to watch out for. Banks may gradually lower APYs if the Fed resumes rate cuts later this year. Many savers are choosing CDs over savings accounts to lock in high yields.
- Shorter-term CDs may offer better yields. Reflecting expectations that interest rates may fall in the future, six- and 12-month CDs are generally offering higher APYs than those with longer terms.
View the best high-yield savings accounts for 2026 to see what APY you may receive as well as potential fees and minimum deposits.
The Latest Auto Loan News and Trends
As of March 17, 2026
- Monthly auto loan payments continue to climb. The average monthly payment on a new car loan reached a record high of $767 in late 2025, according to Experian data. The average used car monthly payment increased modestly to $537.
- Tariffs add upward pressure to vehicle prices. Car buyers paid $44,255 on average for a new car in Q4 2025, up 9% from 2023. Import taxes on cars and parts are increasing production costs—often by thousands per vehicle—which automakers are beginning to pass through to consumers.
- Refinance activity rises. Refinance volume has been climbing since Q2 2024. More than two-thirds of refi borrowers have credit scores of at least 661.
Find out how to get the best auto loan rates and see loan amounts and terms you could receive.
The Latest Mortgage News and Trends
As of March 17, 2026
- Mortgage rates reverse course. After hitting a three-year low, the 30-year mortgage rate has ticked back up on inflationary concerns.
- Home prices continue easing. The median home listing price dropped to $391,617 in February 2026, down 7% from its high of $423,000 in July, according to Zillow.
- The Federal Reserve pauses rate changes. Following multiple rate cuts in 2024 and 2025, the Fed held rates steady at its January and March meetings.
- Affordability remains a challenge. Even with slightly lower list prices and steadier mortgage rates, many buyers continue to struggle with affordability.
View current mortgage rates and find out what loan amount and terms you could receive.
The Latest Mortgage Refinance News and Trends
As of March 17, 2026
- Mortgage rates reverse course. After hitting a three-year low, the 30-year mortgage rate ticked back up on inflationary concerns.
- Refinance activity rises. Lower rates pushed refinance volume to a three-year high at the end of 2025. About 1 in 5 homeowners with a mortgage could currently benefit from refinancing, according to Redfin.
- The Federal Reserve pauses rate changes. Following multiple rate cuts in 2024 and 2025, the Fed held rates steady at its January and March meetings.
- Some homeowners hesitate to refinance. Despite the potential for savings, only 9% of eligible borrowers have refinanced. The ones who did saved an average of $248 per month, according to the March ICE Mortgage Monitor Report.
View current mortgage refinance rates and find out what loan amount and terms you could receive.
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About the author
Karen Axelton
Karen Axelton specializes in writing about business and entrepreneurship. She has created content for companies including American Express, Bank of America, MetLife, Amazon, Cox Media, Intel, Intuit, Microsoft and Xerox.
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