Citizens Financial Group Chairman and CEO Bruce Van Saun indicated on September 9, 2026, that despite concerns, consumers are proving to be resilient. He highlighted that low unemployment is a critical factor supporting this resilience, particularly for lower-end customers.

Van Saun's remarks suggest a nuanced view of consumer behavior, acknowledging a degree of caution while emphasizing continued spending. This perspective comes amidst varying reports on consumer financial health.

His previous statements in March 2026 addressed challenges for regional banks and predicted a slowdown in private credit industry growth. He also discussed how lenders are leveraging AI and cloud-based tools to improve efficiency. This latest commentary continues to offer insights into the broader economic landscape and consumer outlook.