Buy now, pay later (BNPL) usage has exploded in recent years. The ease of use and economic headwinds are likely contributors to the growth. Since the introduction of BNPL services, there has been relatively minimal impact on credit scores. However, that’s changing, as FICO will begin to factor in BNPL usage, according to The Wall Street Journal. Check Out: The One Loan That’s Almost Guaranteed To Deliver Financial Disaster Learn More: 3 Reasons Retired Boomers Shouldn't Give Their Kids a Living Inheritance ...

Core Insights - The article emphasizes that a high credit score does not equate to financial success, as it primarily reflects an individual's relationship with debt rather than their overall financial health [2][3]. Group 1: Credit Score Perspective - The FICO score is described as an "I love debt" score, indicating that it is not a true measure of financial well-being [2]. - Key components of the FICO score include: 35% based on payment history, 30% on debt level, 15% on length of time in debt, and the remainder on type and newness of debt [2]. Group 2: Millionaire Insights - A significant study revealed that none of the 10,167 millionaires attributed their wealth to airline miles, highlighting a disconnect between common financial myths and reality [4]. - Among millionaires, 82% reported never having taken out a car loan or lease, with many of the remaining 18% considering it a major financial mistake [4]. Group 3: Financial Behavior - The article suggests that to achieve millionaire status, individuals should adopt behaviors typical of millionaires, rather than relying on credit or debt [5].

FHFA Director William Pulte said that lenders may now use VantageScore 4.0, an alternative to the FICO score, while assessing applicants. https://t.co/XHw9xLmctq ...