'Green' loans and cars drive record rise in consumer borrowing, but fears raised over possible global downturn
Briefly

Lending in Ireland has surged to unprecedented levels, with personal loans doubling over the past four years. The Central Bank reported outstanding consumer credit exceeded €13 billion, marking the highest since February 2020. Growth spans various loan types, notably car loans and home improvement funding. Loan terms of one to five years dominate, potentially placing long-term repayment pressures on consumers. Notably, economists caution that external economic factors, including US policies, may pose risks of a global recession, adding complexity to this rising borrowing trend.
The current surge in personal loans highlights increasing consumer confidence, with more than €13 billion in outstanding credit, the highest since February 2020.
Car loan activity saw significant growth, with nearly €850 million drawn down last year, reflecting a 14% rise, underscoring a rebound in vehicle purchases.
Read at Irish Independent
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