TransUnion: Super-prime share hits 40.7% while subprime climbs to 14.8%
TRU•TransUnion reports that end-2025 subprime share rose to 14.8% (from 15.1% in Q4 2019) while super prime consumers expanded to 40.7%, seeing average debt balances climb 25% since 2019. Subprime and near-prime groups carry debt-to-income ratios of 14.3% and 16.5% as delinquencies edge higher.
1. K-Shaped Credit Distribution Trends
End-2025 data show credit score distribution polarizing into super-prime (40.7%) and subprime (14.8%) tiers, while mid-range borrowers decline. This trend reflects a growing divide between high- and low-risk consumers.
2. Debt Growth and DTI by Tier
Since end-2019, super-prime consumers have increased average debt balances by 25%, raising total obligations but maintaining a low debt-to-income ratio of 5.4%. Near-prime and subprime borrowers carry higher ratios of 16.5% and 14.3%, amplifying their vulnerability to income pressures.
3. Delinquency Patterns and Consumer Stress
Credit card and personal loan delinquencies rose slightly in Q1 2026 but remain near 2024 and 2023 levels, and mortgage delinquencies, though trending up, stay well below 2008 crisis peaks. Higher debt loads and affordability strains among subprime and near-prime segments signal potential market stress.
