Pandemic Boom Years

During the pandemic, buy now, pay later programs, sometimes shortened to BNPL, proliferated as many Americans spent time in lockdown shopping. Consumers seemed to enjoy having the option to acquire an item when they wanted it, while simultaneously putting off payment.

The programs were especially appealing to “subprime” consumers with limited access to traditional credit. From Q4 2019 through 2021 about 43% of payment plan applicants were in this category. Now as stimulus payments have ended and inflation heats up, more of those same borrowers are making late payments.

Rising Rates

Investor sentiment seems to be souring on these companies’ prospects due to concerns associated with a slowing economy or recession. Namely, the concern is that defaults will rise. Another issue is the Fed’s rate increases. These are hitting BNPL companies’ profits, as the credit lines that support the loans they issue are getting more expensive.

During the boom years, these companies benefited from a low-interest-rate environment and their valuations took off amid strong consumer demand. Investors saw profit potential. In August 2021, Block Inc (SQ) announced a $29 billion deal to buy one of the industry’s largest companies in the BNPL space, Afterpay. Less than a year later Affirm (AFRM), another big player in the space, has seen its stock drop by about 85% from its November 2021 high.

Restricted Access?

In this tricky economic environment, the BNPL companies are implementing many changes to how they operate. These tactics include layoffs, slowing new originations, and implementing more stringent lending standards.

As Americans feel their wallets squeezed amid rising prices for everything from groceries to gas, as well as discretionary expenses like vacations, the option to pay later may be appealing. But as the companies providing these loans exercise more caution to protect their bottom lines, shoppers may find these payment options are also harder to come by.

Things are changing daily within the financial world. Sign up for the SoFi Daily Newsletter to get the latest news updates in your inbox every weekday.

Sign up

Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.
The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.
Communication of SoFi Wealth LLC an SEC Registered Investment Adviser
SoFi isn’t recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.
SOSS22060201

The post Buy Now, Pay Later Programs Stumble Amid Economic Headwinds appeared first on SoFi.