Credit

Even though interest rates have been falling, people are more reluctant to take on new debt.

The rules were updated by several federal regulators this week, including the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.

A more detailed look at the numbers reveals a more complex picture about Americans' debt.

At a time of high prices and interest rates, BNPL offerings are tempting. But they could lead vulnerable consumers into a debt spiral.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau announced new rules today requiring companies like Afterpay and Klarna to investigate when customers dispute a charge, and issue refunds for returned products. They'll also have to provide periodic billing statements.

Freeze your credit, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or use free, online resources, experts say.

Small and medium-size businesses are increasingly getting loans from nonbank entities like hedge funds or private equity firms.

But other positive factors in the economy are limiting the potential damage, economists say, like low unemployment.

In New York City, there's been an uptick in landlords reporting tenants' rents to credit bureaus, and not all renters are happy about it.

But with interest rates high and wage growth slowing, that level of spending is becoming unsustainable.