Consumer payment trends in 2026 are shaping up to include pushback on interchange fees, rising buy now/pay later usage, crypto payments, and agentic commerce. The proposed merchant settlement with Visa and Mastercard could impact banks’ credit card positioning and consumer behavior. Banks may need to adjust fees, interest rates, or rewards offerings.

The Texas Restaurant Association is encouraging cash or debit card payments due to rising credit card swipe fees, which totaled $187.2 billion in 2024. Buy now/pay later is gaining traction due to budget concerns, with 30% of U.S. consumers using BNPL. This trend may impact credit card use, particularly among younger generations.

Stablecoins and digital assets like Bitcoin are gaining consumer interest for payments. Square enabled four million U.S. merchants to accept Bitcoin without fees through 2026. AI-driven platforms from Visa and Mastercard are aiding in shopping and payments. The use of AI in payments raises questions about trust, authentication, and convenience.

Young consumers are flocking to fintechs like Monzo, Revolut, SoFi, and Chime for financial services, favoring convenience and speed. GlobalData research suggests that digital banks may outshine traditional banks with their array of payment options and hassle-free money management. Adapting to digital channels is crucial to meet younger consumers’ expectations.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Consumer behavior is shifting; can banks keep up?