Finance

Debt patterns and financial awareness among Southeast Asians

Fieldwork conducted from 16 Jun - 4 Jul 2023 N = 500 ID, MY, PH, SG, TH, VN

While traditionally viewed with caution and apprehension, there is now a notable normalisation of debt, reflected in the rising popularity of credit cards and buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) payment methods. Many individuals, particularly among younger generations, have embraced the convenience and freedom offered by these financial tools, using them as a means to manage their expenses. However, this changing mindset towards debt raises questions about the potential consequences and long-term financial implications. In this study, we explore consumer borrowing habits, types of debt, personal finance awareness, and the budgeting measures individuals undertake to manage their loans.

What’s inside

  • Types of debts Southeast Asians have
  • Comfort levels with taking loans
  • Reasons for taking loans
  • Tracking and budgeting habits

What you get

Report deck (PDF)Data tables (Excel)ChartsCrosstabs on request

Methodology

First-party data from Milieu’s own Southeast Asia panel, ISO 27001 certified. Full approach on our research page.