American Express USCS card loan delinquency at 1.1% in July
American Express reported July-end credit metrics showing USCS card member loans with 1.1% past due and 1.7% write-offs. In contrast, U.S. Small Business loans showed higher stress with 1.3% past due and 2.6% write-offs, highlighting segment-specific risk variations.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
American Express disclosed key credit quality metrics for its US Card Services (USCS) and U.S. Small Business segments as of July end, revealing distinct risk profiles between its consumer and commercial lending books.
The filing indicates that while consumer card loan delinquencies remained relatively contained, the small business segment faced higher levels of past-due loans and principal write-offs during the same period.
Credit Quality Metrics
The data separates performance between the broader USCS card member loans and the specific U.S. Small Business card member loans.
| Segment: | Metric: | Value: |
|---|---|---|
| USCS Card Member Loans | 30 Days Past Due As % Of Total | 1.1% |
| USCS Card Member Loans | Net Write-Off Rate (Principal Only) | 1.7% |
| U.S. Small Business Loans | 30 Days Past Due As % Of Total | 1.3% |
| U.S. Small Business Loans | Net Write-Off Rate (Principal Only) | 2.6% |
What the Numbers Show
The data reveals a clear divergence in credit performance between the two segments. The U.S. Small Business segment recorded a 2.6% net write-off rate, which is significantly higher than the 1.7% rate observed in the general USCS card member portfolio. Similarly, delinquency rates were elevated in the business segment at 1.3%, compared to 1.1% for consumer cards. This suggests that credit risk concentration remains higher within the small business lending book relative to the broader consumer card portfolio as of July end.
How might American Express adjust its underwriting standards or credit limits for the U.S. Small Business segment in response to the elevated 2.6% net write-off rate?
What impact could the widening divergence between consumer and small business credit quality have on Amex's overall provision for credit losses in upcoming quarters?
Are there specific industry verticals within the small business portfolio driving the higher delinquency rates, and how is management addressing this concentration risk?

































