Market reconfiguration, New consumer behavior, the fall in inflation and expectations of exchange stability They are generating an environment with opportunities, but also with risks that could be amplified by international uncertainty if the context is not evaluated in an integral way.
The credit, for years relegated in Argentina, is living an boom. In a few months, the volume of credit went from representing 4.4% of GDP to reach 7.5%, according to the February Monthary (last available), prepared by the Central Bank of the Argentine Republic.
This translates into larger loans, more extensive deadlines and an opening towards financing that covers from consumption to personal and productive projects. According to the survey of market expectations (REM) of February, the credit will continue to be accessible in an environment where the active reference interest rate (TAMAR) of private banks is projected on decline: From 29.7% TNA in March 24% TNA for December this year.
However, the attractiveness of a low rate can lead to errors if other variables are not analyzed. “Although the interest rate is a relevant factor when requesting a loan, making a decision only based on it can be counterproductive if other aspects are evaluated,” Julián analyzes sanctioned, CEO and co -founder of Alpret to, the first marketplace of financial products in Latin America.
Hidden costs, such as commissions or additional charges, and credit flexibility according to the applicant’s personal situation, are equally determinants. “Opting only for the lowest interest rate can lead to overlooking hidden costs, so the total cost of the credit must be considered throughout the payment period,” warns sanctioned.
Credits: The new macroeconomic environment
The expectations of the REM indicate a monthly descent inflation – with projections below 3% from April – and a relatively stable exchange rate, which would go from $ 1 .069 in March to $ 1,175 per dollar towards the end of the year, with an average depreciation of 1% monthly.
In turn, GDP growth is expected close to 5% this year, according to the World Bank and, if the unemployment continues its downward trend (it went from 7.7% in the first quarter of 2024 to 6.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to INDEC), which could give more security to consumers and companies to assume financial commitments of greater term. While projections are encouraging, current volatility in global markets requires a prudent reading of these expectations.
Creditors to five years, reactivated mortgages and productive lines with competitive rates reflect a new vision of banks: there is a willingness to bet in the long term. This is something unprecedented in a country accustomed to operating with very short deadlines, and raises a cultural challenge. The change in mentality – both in entities as in consumers – will depend largely on the stability of macroeconomic conditions.
Keys for making smarter financial decisions
In this dynamic context, experts agree on some basic tips:
- Evaluate real payment capacity, not just interest. That the quota adapts to income is more important than a low rate.
- Take into account the term and purpose of the credit: a five -year loan should not be used for immediate consumption.
- Look at the macroeconomic context: inflation, exchange rate and expectations of the REM must be on the radar. In the current climate of global uncertainty, this variable charges even greater relevance.
- Take advantage of new long -term options, if they are consistent with personal needs and projections.
- Avoiding over -indebtedness is key, especially in a volatile global environment, even if there is more credit available.
The role of technology as an ally in financial decisions
To implement these tips effectively and make more informed decisions, technology plays a key role. Credit comparison platforms allow multiple options to be evaluated in an agile and transparent manner. “Thanks to the ease of use of these platforms, consumers can compare different offers and obtain credits in a more convenient and agile way”emphasizes sancludely, at the head of a company that operates in 7 countries in Latin America and connects more than 5.5 million users with financial instruments.
In addition, it emphasizes that “using credit simulators allows you to calculate the fees and know the total cost of the credit before compromising”, which contributes to a more informed decision making. However, it also emphasizes the need to act responsibly: “It is important to ensure that the platforms are safe and take care of the privacy of personal data.”
In short, intelligent financial decisions are not taken by looking at a single variable. “Always having more information is useful for making the best decision,” he synthesizes Julián sancludely. Today, that information is more available than ever thanks to technological tools. The challenge is to use it with criteria.
Source: Ambito
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