The Big Take

Billions in Phantom Debt Is Lurking In ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ Services

Today on the Big Take: with more Americans taking advantage of ‘buy now, pay later’ services, economists worry they’re missing crucial debt data.

“Buy Now, Pay Later” platforms allow consumers to split purchases into smaller installments.
Lock
This article is for subscribers only.

Never miss an episode. Follow The Big Take daily podcast today.

“Buy Now, Pay Later” options have exploded in popularity and availability, and in the midst of stubborn inflation, Americans are even using them to buy essentials like groceries. But not all of the BNPL providers report data like credit card companies — and no one knows exactly how much debt consumers owe. On today’s episode, host Sarah Holder talks to reporters Paulina Cachero and Paige Smith, who tried to find out more about the size and scope of the debt.