Marketplace All-in-One Big banks post big earnings, but lending is more muted
Oct 15, 2025
Big banks report strong profits, particularly in trading and investment banking, but lending remains sluggish. Businesses hesitate to take on new debt due to rising rates. Homeowners are reluctant to refinance or tap into home equity, while credit card lending is thriving among higher-income households. Meanwhile, a major cryptocurrency scam has been uncovered, leading to the largest-ever Bitcoin seizure by the DOJ. Broadway unions authorize a strike as they navigate rising production costs despite record revenues.
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Revenue Up, Lending Muted
- Big banks posted strong revenue driven by investment banking and trading this quarter.
- Traditional lending growth remained muted despite overall profit gains.
Rates Restrain Borrowing
- Businesses are reluctant to take on new debt amid rate and tariff uncertainty.
- Consumers hesitate on mortgages and HELOCs because high interest rates make borrowing unattractive.
Cards Rebound With Wealthier Consumers
- Credit-card loan volumes are rising as consumer discretionary spending recovers.
- Higher-income households are driving much of that spending rebound.