This book proposes a new way of thinking about the controversial and
complex challenges associated with the regulation of high-cost credit,
specifically payday lending. These products have received significant
attention in both the media and political arena. The inadequacy of
regulatory interventions has created ongoing problems with the provision
of high-cost credit, particularly for consumers with lesser bargaining
power and who are already financially vulnerable.
The book tackles two specific gaps in the existing literature. The first
involves inadequate analysis of the relevant philosophical concepts
around high-cost credit, which can result in an over-simplification of
what are particularly complex issues. The second is a lack of engagement
in both the market and lived experience of borrowers, resulting in
limited understanding of those who use these financial products.
The Future of High-Cost Credit explores the theoretical grounding,
policy initiatives and interdisciplinary perspectives associated with
high-cost credit, making a novel and insightful contribution to the
existing literature. The problems with debt extend far beyond the legal
sphere, and the book will therefore be of interest to many other
academic disciplines, as well as for those working in public policy and
'the third sector'.