Consumers are stretched thin, tapped out of credit: Unicus Research's Ganapathi
News September 20, 2025

Consumers are stretched thin, tapped out of credit: Unicus Research's Ganapathi

CNBC's "Fast Money" team discusses the electric vehicle market in the U.S., consumer credit and more with Laks Ganapathi, founder and CEO of Unicus Research.

Consumers are feeling the pinch and running out of credit, according to Laks Ganapathi, founder and CEO of Unicus Research. His insights were shared during a recent discussion on CNBC's "Fast Money," where he joined the team to dissect the current state of the U.S. economy, with a particular focus on the electric vehicle (EV) market and the overall health of consumer credit.

Ganapathi's analysis paints a concerning picture of the American consumer. He suggests that many individuals have reached their limit when it comes to borrowing, relying heavily on credit to maintain their current lifestyles. This reliance, coupled with inflationary pressures and rising interest rates, is creating a precarious situation. Consumers, stretched thin by everyday expenses, are finding it increasingly difficult to manage their debt obligations.

The "Fast Money" discussion likely explored the implications of this strained consumer credit environment on various sectors, including the EV market. While electric vehicles represent a growing segment of the automotive industry, their higher price point compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars makes them particularly susceptible to consumer spending constraints. If consumers are tapped out of credit, their ability to finance EV purchases will be significantly hampered, potentially slowing down the adoption rate of these vehicles.

Ganapathi's expertise in consumer research likely provided valuable context to the "Fast Money" panel. He may have presented data points illustrating the growing burden of debt on American households and the potential consequences for economic growth. The discussion likely delved into the factors contributing to this situation, such as stagnant wages, rising housing costs, and the increasing cost of essential goods and services.

The implications of consumers being "tapped out of credit" are far-reaching. It can lead to decreased spending, slower economic growth, and increased risk of defaults on loans and credit card debt. Ganapathi's appearance on "Fast Money" serves as a warning sign, highlighting the need for policymakers and businesses to address the underlying issues that are contributing to the financial strain on American consumers. The conversation likely sparked further debate and analysis among economists and market watchers, as they grapple with the challenges posed by a consumer base that is increasingly struggling to make ends meet.
Category: Technology