TransUnion’s latest consumer survey of 3,076 U.S. adults reveals that 39% of respondents—1,190 individuals—plan to purchase a vehicle within the next 12 months, with over 80% of those buyers expecting to act within that timeframe. The trend spans all generations, and 65% of prospective buyers intend to trade in their current vehicles, potentially adding substantial supply to the used-car market. Notably, 87% of interested consumers aim to buy while 13% lean toward leasing, with leasing interest highest among Gen Z and Millennials at 17%, compared to 7% of Baby Boomers. These findings underscore solid underlying demand that coincides with rising auto loan originations in 2025, driven by super prime and subprime segments, even as 53% of non-buyers cite cost concerns and 44% cite economic uncertainty as key barriers.

TransUnion has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the mobile division of RealNetworks, expected to close in the first half of 2026 subject to regulatory approvals. The deal brings AI-driven messaging and voice analytics capabilities—including real-time detection of synthetic and cloned voices and analysis of over 8 billion blocked scam messages—to TransUnion’s communications solutions portfolio. These technologies will integrate with TransUnion’s Trusted Call Solutions, enhancing verified branded calling and fraud blocking for enterprises and carriers. Executives anticipate no material impact on leverage or liquidity, financing the acquisition with existing cash-on-hand, and foresee expanded services for financial services, insurance, healthcare and telecommunications clients worldwide.