Consumer spending concerns and the use of buy-now-pay-later services

In the podcast episode, the host discusses consumer spending concerns and the use of buy-now-pay-later services. While there is some worry about consumers getting overextended, the speaker points out that total credit card debt in the US has exceeded a trillion dollars. However, consumer debt has slowed down, possibly due to higher interest rates and the resumption of student loan payments. The speaker also highlights the tight job market in the US, which has led to disposable income for many consumers. A key insight is that as long as consumers continue to choose the no-interest option and make payments in four installments, the buy-now-pay-later category may see growth. However, there is concern about longer-term buy-now-pay-later deals with interest, likening them to credit card debt.