Why don’t Europeans use credit cards?

Credit cards and their myriad rewards programs, commonplace in America, have never caught on in Europe.

The credit card is a staple of American life. Upon entering the workforce, and often even earlier, Americans open up their first credit card. Some people opt for a basic credit card provided by their bank, with few bells and whistles. Others will conduct extensive research on sites like thepointsguy.com or nerdwallet.com to identify the card that produces the best points and rewards. Consumers can shop around for the ideal credit card that suits their lifestyle, regardless of their primary bank.