Consumers of financial products and services experience a complex and dynamic landscape, shaped by evolving risks, opportunities and vulnerabilities. The rise in financial scams and frauds poses material threats to consumer confidence and financial well-being, while the rapid digitalisation of the financial sector is transforming how consumers access, use and manage financial products and services, which presents both new benefits and challenges. At the same time, interest rates and inflation, which remain elevated compared to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels in several jurisdictions, result in increased borrowing costs and place pressure on many household budgets.
When these macroeconomic pressures interact with pre-existing vulnerabilities affecting certain households, such as low levels of financial literacy, high debt levels and constrained incomes, they amplify risks to individual and household financial well-being. Conduct-related risks, such as unclear disclosures, inadequate or misleading financial advice and dishonest sales practices, can lead to consumer detriment as individuals make decisions about how to choose financial products and services, and how best to spend, save and invest their money.
The Consumer Finance Risk Monitor 2026 is published at an important moment, as structural economic, technological and conduct-related risks converge in ways that significantly elevate both consumer exposure and the need for strengthened oversight. Across seven chapters, the report examines and provides evidence about risks affecting financial consumers, the financial products and services most likely to give rise to consumer detriment, and trends in consumer complaints and financial scams and frauds.
Taken together, responses from the 60 participating jurisdictions point to a consumer experience that continues to evolve, influenced by technological transformation, economic pressures, and changes in market behaviour. Drawing on original data and analysis, the OECD is pleased to offer this report to support policymakers in identifying and addressing current and emerging trends, issues and risks, and in strengthening protections for financial consumers.
Carmine Di Noia,
Director for Financial and Enterprise Affairs,
OECD
Colm Kincaid,
Chair of OECD Working Party on Financial Consumer Protection, Education and Inclusion
Deputy Governor, Consumer and Investor Protection, Central Bank of Ireland