Region shows strong dynamism in the credit market in 2025; DF leads default rate among consumers
According to Central Bank data for May 2025, the Central-West region's lending continues apace, with widespread growth for both individuals and companies. The total credit balance grew by 11.2% for individuals (PF) and 8.6% for companies (PJ), compared to the same period last year. For comparison purposes, the national average was 12.3% (PF) and 10.9% (PJ).
Among the states, Goiás stood out with the highest growth in consumer credit, with an increase of 12.08%, followed by Mato Grosso (11.61%) and Mato Grosso do Sul (11.50%). As for corporate credit, the highlight was Mato Grosso do Sul, which recorded an impressive 15.97% increase in credit to companies - well above the regional average.
Despite the favorable scenario for granting credit, the delinquency data from the credit bureau sector shows an important warning: the indebted population still represents a significant portion in the states of the region. The Federal District leads this ranking, with 60.66% of the population in debt. This is followed by Mato Grosso do Sul (55.16%), Mato Grosso (50.01%) and Goiás (45.03%). In comparison, the national default rate among individuals is around 47%, while among companies it is around 32%.
The panorama reveals a paradox: at the same time as credit is expanding, a significant portion of the population continues to face financial difficulties. The growth in the supply of credit, coupled with an economic recovery, has boosted consumption and investment. However, the high level of default reinforces the need for more intensive financial education and responsible lending.
“Financial education is an essential pillar for the sustainability of the credit market. Access to credit needs to be accompanied by knowledge and planning to avoid over-indebtedness. We need to differentiate between credit and income, encourage healthy consumption habits and guide the population on how to use credit consciously and strategically,” says Elias Sfeir, president of the National Association of Credit Bureaus (ANBC).
The scenario for the Midwest in 2025 is a good illustration of the challenges facing the financial market: balancing stimulus with the sustainability of credit, ensuring that growth is accompanied by greater financial health for both borrowers and lenders.
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