UK Consumers Rein In Credit Card Spending in July but Balances Hit Record High for Second Month

LONDON, September 21, 2026--After an increase in spending on credit cards in June, data analysis by global analytics software leader FICO (NYSE: FICO) shows a drop in July. However, despite lower spending, the average active balance climbed to a new record high for the second consecutive month. With payment rates displaying a modest month-on-month recovery but remaining below last year's levels, and late payments continuing to deteriorate year-on-year, risk teams will need to retain heightened m