Kantar's Profiles Blog

While many consumers agree that using mobile phones while driving isn’t OK to do, the activity is perceived as only moderately dangerous compared to other distracted driving activities. According to a recent Lightspeed FSG study on Dangerous Driving Activities (2016), 45% of U.S. consumers agree completely that it’s never OK to use a mobile phone while driving (65% agree completely or slightly). More than half of respondents observed other drives using their phones while driving. And, older consumers are more likely to agree with this sentiment than younger consumers (37% of 25-34 year olds vs. 59% of those age 65+).

Six Months After Apple Pay Launch, How Should Banks, Retailers, and Agencies Evaluate Apple Pay, Google Wallet and Samsung

A new Lightspeed FSG study shows an uptick in frequency of Apple Pay use for in-store purchases -- but security concerns and a general lack of interest has slowed adoption of Apple Pay and other eWallet platforms.

Among current Apple Pay users, fully 17% said in the new July 2015 study they use Apple Pay more than 10 times a month for in-store purchases -- up from just 7% in November 2014.

Lightspeed FSG just released a new study on mobile banking in the U.S., based on a nationwide survey of nearly 2,500 consumers who own a smartphone or tablet. While most people realize that Millennials are the heaviest owners and users of smartphones in general, it is fascinating to discover that once the playing field is leveled to include only people who own a smartphone or tablet, Millennials are still by far the most likely group to engage with their bank or credit union using mobile banking.

American Express announced this week that it will discontinue its exclusive agreement with the Costco Wholesale Club Stores, which have traditionally accepted only American Express credit cards in its stores. Costco is likely to enter into a new partnership agreement with another U.S. card issuer.