Core Viewpoint - Despite recent growth in the Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) industry, concerns about future performance are rising among investors, particularly due to increasing default rates and a weakening economy [2][10][14]. Company Performance - Affirm Holdings' stock has decreased by 17% in 2025 following a prediction of lower-than-expected growth for the current quarter [2]. - In the last three years, Affirm's stock has increased by 126%, reaching $52 per share, while the industry has expanded at an annual rate exceeding 50% [3]. - The company's fiscal third quarter results showed revenue of $783 million, a 36% increase year-over-year, and earnings per share of $0.01, surpassing expectations [5]. - The fourth quarter revenue guidance is set at $830 million, which is $11 million below consensus estimates, while the gross merchandise value (GMV) guidance is $9.55 billion, exceeding expectations by $350 million [5]. Industry Trends - The BNPL market has grown significantly, with an average annual growth rate of 55% since 2021, expanding from $97 billion to an estimated $560 billion in 2025 [10]. - The rise in BNPL loans has led to increased investment in the industry, but also to rising default rates among major players [10][12]. - Nearly two-thirds of BNPL loans are issued to borrowers with risky credit scores, indicating potential credit quality issues [12]. Consumer Behavior - Affirm's business is closely linked to consumer spending in sectors like electronics, apparel, and travel, with a 10% growth in active customers reaching 22 million in the third quarter [6]. - The company has introduced 0% interest loans, which have increased by 44%, as a strategy to drive sales and enhance customer lifetime value [8][9]. Market Sentiment - Wall Street analysts view Affirm's stock as undervalued, trading 29% below the average price target of $67.18 set by 21 analysts [4]. - Despite concerns, some analysts remain bullish on Affirm, citing its leadership in the BNPL space and recent partnerships, such as with Costco [17].

Core Insights - The article emphasizes that individuals with bad credit still have viable loan options available, particularly through specialized lenders like Upstart, which offers a more inclusive approach to loan approval [1][5][36]. Group 1: Upstart's Loan Offerings - Upstart is highlighted as the top choice for bad credit loans, utilizing AI to assess applicants beyond just credit scores, considering factors like education and income [6][8][23]. - Loan amounts range from $1,000 to $50,000, with APRs between 6.70% and 35.99%, depending on the borrower's creditworthiness [9]. - Upstart's repayment terms are fixed at either 36 or 60 months, providing a structured payment schedule for borrowers [10]. Group 2: Benefits of Upstart - Upstart accepts borrowers with credit scores as low as 300, and for college students or recent graduates, there is no credit score requirement [12]. - The platform offers fast funding, with funds available as soon as the next business day after approval [12][26]. - There are no prepayment penalties, allowing borrowers to pay off loans early without incurring additional costs [12]. Group 3: Understanding Bad Credit Loans - Bad credit loans are designed for individuals with poor credit histories, providing access to funds that traditional lenders may deny [17][36]. - These loans may come with higher interest rates due to the associated risks, but they also offer opportunities for borrowers to rebuild their credit [17][37]. - The article outlines various types of bad credit loans, including personal loans, secured loans, payday loans, and peer-to-peer loans [21]. Group 4: Application Process and Requirements - Upstart's application process is entirely digital, requiring minimal documentation, which can be completed online in just a few minutes [25][27]. - Approval is often instant, with funds typically disbursed the same day or within one business day, making it suitable for urgent financial needs [26][27]. - The article advises borrowers to focus on key features when applying for bad credit loans, such as fair interest rates, no prepayment penalties, and clear terms [38][44].