Inflation Eases, But Mortgage Rates and BNPL Scrutiny Rise

In today's episode, we explore the latest economic indicators showing a cooling trend in inflation, with the Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index rising 2.1% year-over-year. Despite this, mortgage rates have surged above 7% for thirty-year fixed-rate loans. We also delve into the increased scrutiny of 'Buy Now, Pay Later' financing options, as regulatory changes in the U.S. and UK aim to enhance consumer protections. Join us for insights on these developments and their implications for consumers and the economy.

Sources: https://www.morningstar.com/economy/april-pce-report-pce-inflation-index-up-21-softer-than-expected https://www.fxstreet.com/news/us-core-pce-inflation-likely-steady-in-april-as-markets-price-federal-reserve-rate-cut-for-september-202505300600 https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/april-2025-pce-inflation https://www.bea.gov/news/2025/personal-income-and-outlays-april-2025 https://www.metatradingclub.com/april-pce-price-index/ https://www.morningstar.com/economy/april-pce-report-pce-inflation-index-up-21-softer-than-expected https://www.morningstar.com/economy/forecasts-april-pce-report-show-another-good-month-inflation https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2025/05/30/PCE-BEA-April-2025/4101748612753/ https://www.investopedia.com/what-to-expect-from-april-pce-report-on-inflation-11742497 https://kpmg.com/us/en/articles/2025/april-2025-pce.html https://consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-announcement-regarding-enforcement-actions-related-to-buy-now-pay-later-loans/ https://www.foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/financial-expert-warns-against-hidden-traps-buy-now-pay-later-services https://www.consumerfinancialserviceslawmonitor.com/2025/05/understanding-new-yorks-new-buy-now-pay-later-law/ https://www.leoninefocus.com/states-step-in-to-regulate-buy-now-pay-later-loans/ https://thepaymentsassociation.org/article/bnpl-in-2025-regulation-reckoning-or-reinvention/