TransUnion’s latest survey of 3,076 U.S. adults reveals that 39% plan to buy a vehicle within the next year, with over 80% of those prospective buyers expecting to transact in the next 12 months. Among this group, 65% intend to trade in their current vehicle, indicating a potential surge in used-car supply. Younger cohorts show a higher propensity to lease—17% of Gen Z and Millennials versus 7% of Baby Boomers—reflecting a shift toward flexibility as auto loan originations climbed in 2025. However, affordability remains the primary barrier for non-buyers: 53% cite cost concerns and 44% cite economic uncertainty. These dynamics suggest that vehicle prices, interest rates and consumer confidence will be key drivers of market activity in 2026.

TransUnion has entered a definitive agreement to acquire RealNetworks’ mobile division, expected to close in H1 2026 pending regulatory approvals. The deal will integrate AI and machine-learning technologies for real-time analytics of text, multimedia messages and calls, bolstering TransUnion’s fraud prevention suite. RealNetworks’ platform has blocked over eight billion spam and scam messages and offers capabilities to detect synthetic voices and enable secure branded calls. Management forecasts the acquisition will expand voice and messaging solutions across financial services, telecommunications, healthcare and public sector clients without materially impacting 2026 leverage or liquidity.