State of the economy report - March 2025

Every lending decision you make relies on data, but what if that data only tells part of the story? Download our use case to meet two borrowers, Claudia and John, and discover how alternative data can help you:

• Reveal hidden financial stability in members.
• Identify early warning signs of risk.
• Enable more accurate and inclusive lending decisions.
• Drive stronger member relationships.

The longest U.S. government shutdown has paused official labor data, but private-sector insights reveal key trends shaping the job market. Alternative sources show slowing job creation, modestly higher unemployment, and signs of resilience consistent with the Fed’s outlook.

• Job growth weakened in late 2025 across major indicators
• Layoff announcements rose, but claims remain low
• Unemployment edged up in line with Fed projections
• Labor market stress remains relatively contained

As we step closer to 2026, all eyes remain on the economic outlook, the labor market and consumer health. Experian’s Chief Economist Joseph Mayans, Director of Fintech Gavin Harding and Solution Insights Director Amanda Roth, will provide a look into:

• The latest economic and credit trends
• Labor market and consumer health
• Student loan update

Credit unions exist to serve all members of their communities. Yet millions of financially responsible individuals remain invisible to conventional scoring. Download our alternative data guide to discover:

• The strategic advantages of alternative credit data 
• The future of inclusive lending
• Why you should partner with us