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Bilt Launches Credit Cards With 10% First‑Year APR as Policy Fight Over Caps Intensifies

A nationwide rate limit would require congressional approval, which faces resistance from industry leaders and key lawmakers.

Overview

  • Bilt Rewards introduced three "Bilt 2.0" cards that charge 10% interest for new cardholders during their first year.
  • After the initial year, the cards' APRs rise sharply to between 26.74% and 37.47%, depending on the product.
  • President Donald Trump has called for a one‑year 10% cap on credit card interest, but experts note such a cap cannot be imposed by executive order.
  • Sens. Bernie Sanders and Josh Hawley have filed legislation to set a 10% ceiling for five years, extending beyond the president’s one‑year proposal.
  • Industry and political critics warn a cap could restrict access to credit and shift borrowers to costlier options, with Morgan Stanley estimating a potential 5% drop in consumer spending.