In this regularly updated site, the Richmond Fed analyzes recent research in consumer finance. We highlight innovative research on the interaction between households and financial markets, especially studies with implications for public policy. A distinguishing feature of our approach is an emphasis on research which combines sound economic theory with cutting-edge methodologies to address questions on consumer finance

Understanding the borrowing, saving and consumption decisions of American households requires a framework through which to organize observed data.

Links to some of the most influential and important scholarly articles on consumer finance, including works by Irving Fisher, Milton Friedman, Robert Lucas, and John Y. Campbell.

Economists continue to make headway into understanding consumer finance. Our regularly updated bibliography highlights some of the latest and most important research.

The Richmond Fed web site has a wealth of research on the economics of Consumer Finance, including President Jeff Lacker's speeches and articles published in Economic Quarterly.