Americans’ economic outlook, financial behaviors, and attitudes towards AI

Making financial progress feels harder than ever for Americans today. Rising costs, limited credit options, and a lack of trust in the financial system are leaving many feeling like the odds are stacked against them.

86% of Americans report that recent economic conditions or policy changes are hurting them, and 74% of Americans have abandoned financial goals due to systemic barriers.

At the same time there’s a credit paradox, with 72% relying on credit for basic necessities like food and medicine while 46% say the credit system they are relying on is broken—painting a stark portrait of today’s economic reality.  

America’s Economic Opportunity Gap Report, a report from Zest AI, uncovers how these pressures are reshaping financial behavior and eroding confidence in traditional systems. 

Inside the report, you’ll discover:

• How economic uncertainty is reshaping everyday financial choices.
• How credit use and attitudes are shifting, including Buy Now, Pay Later.
• What consumers expect from financial institutions and emerging technology.