De Nederlandsche Bank has published a podcast in which it and the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets discuss how faster and easier digital payments can reduce consumers’ awareness of spending. The discussion highlights that low-friction payment methods can lessen the sense of paying, which can make consumers more likely to spend more than intended or more than they have in their account. The podcast also points to Buy Now Pay Later as a convenience that can lead consumers to spend money they do not have and, in some cases, to build up debt. DNB and the AFM frame payment literacy as important, with consumers needing to understand how payment methods work, their benefits and risks, and what protections apply. They add that vulnerable groups face higher risks and say they are considering with the government how consumer protection can be improved.
De Nederlandsche Bank2026-06-04
De Nederlandsche Bank podcast with the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets highlights overspending and BNPL debt risks from frictionless payments
De Nederlandsche Bank and the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets have released a podcast warning that faster, low-friction digital payments and Buy Now Pay Later services can weaken consumers’ sense of paying and encourage overspending and debt. They stress the importance of payment literacy, highlight heightened risks for vulnerable groups, and note they are working with the government on potential enhancements to consumer protection.