The Steady Ascent of BNPL Usage and Acceptance
The rise of the buy now, pay later (BNPL) concept is transforming the digital world and revolutionizing how we shop online. This innovative payment method has disrupted the traditional credit system and has given consumers greater flexibility and control over their spending habits.
According to a recent study by The Ascent, 60% of US consumers have used Buy Now, Pay Later services at least once, and 30% have used them within the past year. The same study found that the US’s most popular BNPLs are PayPal Credit, Afterpay, and Klarna. Additionally, the global BNPL market is expected to reach $4.7 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 9.4%.
With Buy Now, Pay Later, consumers can make purchases without paying the full amount upfront. Instead, they can spread the cost over several installments, often interest-free. This approach has proven popular with shoppers needing more means to pay for an item outright or prefer to manage their finances more efficiently.
BNPL, as we know it today, began to take shape in the early 2000s when several companies started offering installment plans for online purchases. These plans allowed customers to break up their payments into smaller installments, making it easier to afford expensive items. However, these plans were less flexible than modern BNPL plans and often came with high interest rates and fees.
New BNPL businesses started to appear in the late 2000s and early 2010s, offering more flexible payment schedules with no interest or fees. These companies used technology to make applying for and using BNPL easier and more convenient. They also partnered with retailers to offer BNPL as a payment option at checkout, making it a popular choice for online shoppers.
BNPL has become a popular alternative to traditional credit cards and installment plans. It has expanded beyond online shopping and is now offered in physical stores, and some companies are even partnering with banks to provide BNPL as a feature on their credit cards. The popularity of BNPL is expected to grow as more people seek affordable and flexible ways to pay for their purchases.
“BNPL services offer a financial safety net, allowing you to have your cake and eat it too.”
BNPL services can be a lifesaver for those who need to make a purchase but don’t have the cash on hand, providing them with a financial safety net to fall back on.
One of the significant benefits of BNPL is the convenience it offers. Consumers can purchase items on a whim without having to worry about the immediate financial impact. This has increased sales for merchants and allowed them to reach a wider audience.
There are several benefits of using Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services for consumers:
Flexibility: BNPL services allow customers to spread the cost of their purchases over time, making it easier to afford expensive items.
No interest or fees: Many BNPL services offer zero-interest and no-fee options for customers, making it a cost-effective alternative to credit cards.
Quick and easy: BNPL services are often integrated into online shopping platforms, making it easy to apply and use at checkout.
Improved credit score: Customers that use BNPL services and make on-time payments while using credit responsibly can raise their credit scores.
Transparency: BNPL services provide customers with clear information about the terms and conditions of their payment plan, making it easier to understand and manage their finances.
No impact on credit score: Unlike applying for a credit card or a loan, BNPL does not require a hard credit check, which means it does not affect the customer’s credit score.
Wrapping up
In conclusion, Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services have exploded in popularity in recent years, providing consumers with a convenient and flexible way to make purchases without the need for upfront payments. While BNPL can be an excellent tool for budget-conscious shoppers, it is essential to understand the potential risks involved. Late fines, interest charges, and an impact on your credit score might result from non-payment.
As with any financial product, it is crucial to research your options and use BNPL responsibly. Ultimately, BNPL can be a valid payment option for those who are able to manage it carefully. Still, it is not a solution for those struggling with debt or financial instability.
What’s Next?
How Is BNPL exploding market, and what does it mean for the Future of credit cards?
Hemanthkumar Jambulingam, Senior Director of Product Management, Tavant, will be joining this power panel at #FinovateSpring on May 25!
