Customer financing remains a powerful tool for businesses to grow sales, increase average transaction value, and meet evolving consumer expectations. In 2026, several economic, technological, and consumer behavior trends are contributing to increased demand for accessible and flexible payment solutions, such as Aqua+.
Businesses that adapt to these developments by offering financing options like Aqua+, integrated into the customer journey, are more likely to capture sales and build long-term loyalty.
Here are four key trends expected to increase demand for customer financing in 2026.
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1. Spending on big purchases continues
Consumers continue to finance larger purchases such as home improvements, appliances, and services that represent meaningful investments for households. Structured payment plans allow buyers to afford these purchases with regular payments over time rather than paying the total cost upfront.
Research shows that installment financing options are particularly attractive to consumers facing budget constraints and seeking predictable monthly payments.1
Opportunity for dealers: Offering structured financing for big-ticket purchases can be a key differentiator in driving revenue and reducing sticker shock.
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2. Consumer credit and debt patterns support financing demand
Overall consumer credit usage remains robust, with revolving credit balances such as credit card debt reaching historic highs. U.S. credit card balances surpassed $1.2 trillion in 2025, suggesting consumers are using credit to manage spending and maintain purchasing activity.2
While some consumers carry more debt, structured financing options are increasingly viewed as predictable and manageable alternatives compared with revolving credit.
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3. Point-of-sale financing improves sales outcomes
Embedding financing at the point of sale helps businesses articulate affordable monthly payments along with the total cost. This often increases the likelihood that customers will complete their purchases.
Survey data indicates that embedded lending options appeal to a wide range of consumers and influence buying decisions when integrated into the shopping process.3
Resulting advantage: Dealerships that make point-of-sale financing easy to choose are often rewarded with higher close rates and larger average purchases./li>
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4. Younger consumers drive demand for modern financing solutions
Millennials and Gen Z continue to influence how financing products are designed and marketed. Younger buyers demonstrate strong preferences for flexible, digital, and mobile-friendly financing options over traditional credit products.4
While some research suggests younger consumers approach credit cautiously, a majority express interest in digital financing tools that are simple to use and integrated into their purchasing experiences.5
Implication for dealerships: Aligning financing options with the expectations of younger buyers can help attract and retain these key consumer segments.
What all this means for dealers in 2026
The demand for customer financing in 2026 is shaped by consumer expectations, digital transformation, and patterns in spending and credit usage. Dealers that offer flexible and transparent financing options are positioned to increase conversions, grow average purchase value, and enhance customer satisfaction.
Now is an ideal time to evaluate financing strategies to ensure they meet the needs of today’s buyers and support long-term business growth.
Learn how Aqua+ is making financing simpler, better and faster. Contact us today to experience the power of the plus: https://www.aquafinance.com/aquaplus
Aqua Finance, Inc. is an Equal Housing Lender.
