New figures released by the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA) show that consumer finance new business grew by 3% in April 2026 compared with the same month in 2025.  In the first four months of 2026, new business in this market was 5% higher than in the same period in 2025.

The credit card and personal loans sectors together reported new business 1% lower in April than in the same month in 2025, while the retail store and online credit sector reported an increase in new business of 1% over the same period.

Commenting on the figures, Geraldine Kilkelly, Director of Research and Chief Economist at the FLA, said:

“Consumer finance continued to grow in April, although the pattern of growth points to more cautious, targeted use of credit as households adapt to a tighter economic environment.

“In the near term, the outlook remains challenging, with weak confidence, ongoing cost pressures and higher interest rates weighing on demand. However, the recent US‑Iran agreement to ease geopolitical tensions is a positive development, offering greater stability in energy markets and improving the medium‑term outlook for inflation and growth.

“Looking ahead, demand for consumer finance is likely to be supported by essential borrowing.  At the same time, opportunities for growth by FLA members remain in digital innovation, product development and serving a changing pattern of consumer demand.

“In this environment, consumer finance will continue to play a key role in supporting household resilience and enabling participation across the wider economy.”

Source: FLA