Category: Uncategorized

  • Period of Policy Limbo Creates Once-in-a-Lifetime Buying Opportunity for EV Shoppers

    E-Vision Intelligence Report
    May 2025

    Key Findings
    • EVs Currently More Affordable Than They Will Be in the Future: The current average transaction price for a new battery-electric vehicle (BEV) is $45,600, which is just $500 higher than the average transaction price for non-BEV vehicle, but that average BEV price will surge to $51,200 the moment the $7,500 federal EV tax credit is lifted, and will likely climb higher than that if the cost of tariffs is incorporated.
    • EV Market Share Continues to Grow Despite Regulatory Uncertainty: BEV market share grew 18% in the first quarter of 2025 over the first quarter of 2024, with the bulk of that growth being driven by mass market franchise sales.
    • Current EV Inventory Represents 6.4% of New Vehicle Market: As the volume of new BEV models has continued to grow, with over 60 different BEV models on sale in the United States, dealer inventories have swelled, currently reaching 6.4% of total new vehicle inventory, or about 137,000 vehicles – all of which are still eligible for federal tax credits and are not subject to tariffs. 
    Executive Summary

    While the Trump administration has pledged to end the $7,500 federal tax credit on EVs and new tariffs on imported vehicles and parts will likely drive costs of newly manufactured EVs higher, there are currently about 155,000 new EVs sitting on dealer lots that are still eligible for the federal tax incentive and are not subject to tariffs, creating a unique buying opportunity for those currently in the market. It may not be here for long.

    This E-Vision Intelligence Report dives into key data points trending in each monthly JD Power EV Index update, along with other data points gathered from JD Power studies and pulse surveys, to offer a data-driven consumer perspective on the EV customer experience.

    Cash on the Hood

    BEV prices have been steadily falling for the past three years and have now reached parity with non-BEVs – even dipping below the average non-BEV transaction price in July of 2024. Through the first quarter of 2025, the average new BEV transaction price is $45,600, which is $500 more than the average transaction price for a non-BEV. That price parity comes with a big caveat, though. The BEV prices are getting a $7,500 assist from the federal government through the clean vehicle tax credit, which the Trump administration has pledged to remove. Without that credit, the average BEV transaction price could climb to $51,200, a $6,100 premium over non-BEVs.

    Additional costs introduced through auto industry tariffs would further extend that gap between BEV and non-BEV transaction prices.

    EV Transaction Price at Parity with Federal Incentive

    Growth of Mass Market EVs Keeps Demand High 

    Total market share for BEVs has climbed to 9.5% through the first quarter of 2025, up 18% from the same period last year, and slightly ahead of our forecast for largely stagnant growth this year. The increase in volume is being driven by mass market franchise BEV sales, which rose 58% in 2024 to reach 376,000 total vehicles sold. This growth in demand has been driven by a combination of lower prices and dramatic expansion of BEV model line-ups.

    Mainstream franchise sales growth

    137,000 Reasons to Buy an EV Right Now

    A confluence of market dynamics and geopolitical factors have conspired to create a unique buying opportunity for consumers who are currently considering a new BEV. Manufacturers, under regulatory pressure to electrify their fleets, have flooded the market with new models causing current new model BEV dealer inventories to reach 6.4% of the total new vehicle market. That means 137,000 new BEVs are currently sitting on dealer lots – and they are still eligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit and have not been subject to tariffs. 

    This combination of supply, existing incentives and the threat of significantly higher prices on the horizon could make this the most opportune time to be in the market for a BEV. 

    Longer term, our focus will be on how manufacturers and dealers confront the removal of the clean vehicle credit and tariffs, whether or not those increased costs will be passed along to consumers and what effect those changes will have on consumer demand for BEVs.

    Methodology

    This JD Power E-Vision Intelligence Report is based on data and insights from the JD Power EV Index, the JD Power EV Retail Share Forecast, the JD Power 2025 U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Ownership Study and the JD Power U.S. Electric Vehicle Consideration (EVC) Study. The JD Power EV Index is an analytics tool to benchmark the growing EV market in the United States. It tracks millions of data points aggregated into six categories—interest, availability, adoption, affordability, infrastructure and experience—to evaluate the progress to parity of EVs with gas-powered vehicles in the U.S. Each month, the JD Power electric vehicle practice will analyze these data points, and others to spotlight emerging trends and important shifts in consumer sentiment that are helping to define the fast-moving EV marketplace. 

    Find out More

    This report was authored by Brent Gruber, executive director, electric vehicle practice. The JD Power E-Vision initiative is a company-wide program focused on maximizing JD Power industry-leading EV data, analytics, insights and solutions. Please contact us at the numbers below to connect with Mr. Gruber or to learn more about the underlying research.

    Media Contacts

    Shane Smith; East Coast; 424-903-3665; [email protected]

    Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]

  • Why Gen Y & Z are Increasingly Open to Seeking Advice from Financial Advisors

    Why Gen Y & Z are Increasingly Open to Seeking Advice from Financial Advisors

    Despite the rise of digital platforms and DIY investing tools, younger DIY investors are increasingly open to seeking advice from financial advisors. Gen Y and Gen Z DIY investors are showing a stronger preference for working with financial advisors than their older DIY counterparts, even though they grew up using technology for almost everything, according to the latest JD Power U.S. Investor Satisfaction Study.

    Kapil Vora, Senior Director of Wealth Intelligence at JD Power, shares his expertise in the Financial Service Intelligence Update on why this shift is happening and what it means for the future of wealth management.

    DIY Investors Are Reaching Out

    “We tend to think of DIY investors as confident and independent,” said Vora. “But the data shows many of them are open to advice, especially younger ones. Gen Y and Gen Z investors are the ones most likely to say they want help from an advisor”

    As these younger investors move through major life milestones like starting families and building wealth, they are realizing that digital tools alone may not be enough.

    “They’re beginning to recognize that they don’t have all the answers,” Vora added. “Many are saying that online information just is not enough to support their financial decisions anymore.”

    Why Advisors Matter More Than Ever to Gen Y & Z

    Younger investors are not turning away from digital platforms. Instead, they are saying they want more support than digital alone can provide. The study shows that they often feel uncertain about financial matters and want guidance that feels personal and reliable.

    “Younger investors are growing, and so are their financial responsibilities,” Vora said. “They want to talk to someone who understands their unique goals and challenges.”

    This presents a clear opportunity for wealth management firms.

    What Must Firms Do?

    To meet the needs of younger investors, firms should focus on three key priorities:

    • Combine digital platforms with access to financial advisors
    • Create services and products that support goals like homeownership, debt repayment, and asset building
    • Make their platforms easy to use and understand

    “The most successful firms will be the ones who make advice accessible and relevant without forcing a choice between tech and people,” Vora explained.

    Market Volatility Is Accelerating the Shift

    With market volatility continuing, more investors are reaching out for support. According to Vora, this environment is increasing the desire for professional guidance.

    “Some DIY investors may be caught off guard, and we expect to see a growing interest in advice during this period,” said Vora. “For investors who already work with an advisor, those who receive comprehensive advice feel more confident and secure.”

    Who’s Leading the Pack?

    This year’s top-performing firms stand out for their ability to align with investor needs, whether that means offering hands-on advice or robust self-directed tools. Raymond James ranks highest in overall satisfaction among advised investors, with a score of 748 (on a 1000-point scale). U.S. Bank (738) ranks second and Edward Jones (734) ranks third.

    Vanguard ranks highest in overall satisfaction among DIY investors, with a score of 704. Fidelity (703) ranks second and T. Rowe Price (691) ranks third.

    “These firms are meeting their clients where they are, whether they want self-directed tools or hands-on support,” said Kapil Vora.

    To see the full list of rankings and detailed insights, read the press release.

    Read Press Release

    What’s Next for Gen Y and Z Wealth Management?

    The future of wealth management for this emerging cohort lies in a hybrid model that blends technology with human empathy. As Kapil Vora put it:

    “It’s not just about being digital. It’s about being helpful. That’s what younger investors are asking for.”

    Firms that recognize and respond to this shift will be better positioned to earn long-term loyalty from the next generation of investors.

    See how your firm can benchmark performance and uncover deeper insights with JD Power investor satisfaction data and analytics.

    Explore Now

  • Winning New Business Strategies for Commercial Health Plans

    Healthcare Insights from Christopher Lis, Managing Director, Global Healthcare Intelligence at JD Power

    As the U.S. labor market remains competitive in 2025, employers are focused on how to differentiate themselves to attract and retain top talent. Considering 90% of commercial health plan members have private health insurance offered through an employer or union,[1] it’s no surprise that workplace benefits, like commercial health plans, can be a central part of employers’ value proposition in the pursuit of great hires.

    Health insurance is a cornerstone of the employer value proposition and offering health coverage from a trusted, reputable insurer can significantly affect employee satisfaction and retention. In fact, 62% of employees say their benefits package makes them more inclined to stay with their current employer. Moreover, employees who feel their company genuinely cares about their well-being are 5.8 times more likely to stay for the long term.[2]

    Commercial Member Health Plan Stats

    Given the importance of benefits to employees, it is imperative that plan sponsors look for commercial health plan providers that are committed to member satisfaction.  

    This also presents a key opportunity for commercial health plan marketers tasked with growing an insurance company’s membership through plan sponsors.

    Key Opportunities for Health Plan Marketers

    Since members typically obtain commercial health insurance plans through employers or unions, it’s essential for marketers to engage plan sponsors by demonstrating their commitment to member satisfaction and drive positive brand perceptions by leveraging third-party credibility-building content.

    In recent years, news headlines have frequently focused on rising insurance premiums and additional concerns such as claim denials and access to care, creating an opportunity for health plan providers to stand out by proactively messaging their strong commitment to member satisfaction. Building this positive perception with employers and prospective members helps counter any possible negative narratives. 

    Attract and Retain Business
    • Differentiation: Marketers should highlight what distinguishes their plan from competitors’ and the specific offerings it can provide both employers and their employees. Define what sets the plan apart, whether it’s a robust provider network, competitive pricing, superior customer service, or an innovative wellness program. Highlight these strengths with specific messaging that provides concrete examples that demonstrate their impact. Use data, testimonials, and case studies to show how the plan has already delivered value to employers and their employees.
    • Credibility: Leveraging credibility-boosting content in marketing messages and campaigns, such as third-party awards, ratings, and testimonials, can inspire trust, improve brand perceptions, and demonstrate a strong dedication to member satisfaction, ultimately driving member loyalty and retention.
    Showcase a Strong Reputation

    Understanding why members choose a health plan is imperative to commercial health plan marketers as they craft campaigns, messaging, and strategies. The JD Power 2025 U.S. Commercial Member Health Plan Study℠ reveals that a health insurance company’s good reputation is a top reason for plan selection.

    Health plan marketers should include reputation-enhancing content in marketing materials and presentations rather than leave it up to an employer or prospective member to research an insurance company’s standing. Highlighting credibility-boosting assets such as awards and recognitions from reputable third parties throughout the insurance company’s brochures, website, and other content is a great way to stand out from the competition and inspire consideration.

    Thoughtful integration of content that demonstrates the company’s commitment to member satisfaction throughout marketing campaigns delivers a positive experience for prospective members to be motivated to act on the opportunity to enroll for coverage.

    Utilize Regional Excellence

    Many health insurers serve specific regions or states, and some nationwide insurance companies have a larger presence in some areas more than others. To make commercial health plan marketing more relevant to prospective plan sponsors and their members, consider incorporating location-specific awards, positive reviews, and other recognitions.

    Beyond formal recognitions, building a strong local reputation through positive earned media, community sponsorships, community engagements, and local testimonials can significantly enhance perceptions among potential employer partners and their employees. Incorporating this relevant local content into the marketing mix can foster stronger connections within specific geographic markets.

    Final Thoughts

    For commercial health plans seeking growth, establishing strong relationships with employers is crucial. Marketers can facilitate these conversations with plan sponsors by equipping brokers and sales staff with strategic materials that include credibility-boosting content, talking points that showcase a commitment to satisfaction, along with a regional focus. These well-prepared teams can then cultivate new partnerships with employers with these compelling deliverables.

    Stay tuned to learn which commercial health plan provider ranks highest in each region, as the results of the JD Power 2025 U.S. Commercial Member Health Plan Study℠ will be released on May 28, 2025.

    [1] JD Power 2024 U.S. Commercial Member Health Plan StudySM

    [2] https://www.limra.com/en/research/research-abstracts-public/2024/2024-beat-study-benefits-and-employee-attitude-tracker/exploring-employee-perspectives-on-benefits-and-the-workplace/

  • Test Podcast Embed: AI + Insurance: Key Event Takeaways | Insurance Intelligence Podcast | Ep 13

    AI + Insurance: Key Event Takeaways | Insurance Intelligence Podcast | Ep 13

     

    The JD Power Insurance Intelligence Podcast recently featured a special episode on AI insurance, highlighting key insights from the AI + Insurance Conference in Chicago. This insurance industry podcast explores the cutting-edge developments in artificial intelligence and its impact on the insurance sector.

    Insurance Podcast Highlights:

    Tune in to the latest episode of our insurance podcast, where JD Power experts Michael Vermillion, Stephen Crewdson, and Mark Garrett delve into the future of AI insurance. 

    The JD Power Insurance Intelligence Podcast offers invaluable insights for insurance professionals and tech enthusiasts alike, discussing the latest trends and innovations shaping the industry.

  • Customers Want Security, Ease of Use from their P2P Transfer Brands

    Customers Want Security, Ease of Use from their P2P Transfer Brands

    When it comes to P2P (person-to-person) transfers, bank customers are fiercely loyal to the brand they prefer. However, according to new JD Power data, network effects, security and ease of use play a large role in determining which “additional” brands consumers are using.
    This Payments Intelligence Report dives into the findings of the JD Power 2025 U.S. P2P Transfers Satisfaction Study to spotlight the prevailing sentiment and emerging trends in P2P transfer customer experience.
     

    Customers Prefer Adding Over Switching

    Most customers say they do not intend to switch using their primary P2P brand, but most also use more than one brand, indicating openings exist for providers to grab more market share. The average P2P user has accounts with 2.8 brands, with PayPal being the most common additional brand. Overall, 47% of P2P users have a secondary account with PayPal.

    Bar chart showing how many P2P payment accounts consumers have with different brands.

     

    Customers Want Ease of Use, Security

    Customers say the most likely reason to switch P2P brands for both sending and receiving money is family and friends using a different P2P transfer account (41%). Security concerns (27% for sending money, 25% for receiving) were also among the top reasons.

    Chart showing reasons consumers would switch P2P brands for sending or receiving money.

     

    Brands using the Zelle network continue their dominance over industry peers. For a second consecutive year, among the top eight performing brands in the study, seven are part of the Zelle network. They are (in alphabetical order): Bank of America, Capital One, Chase, PNC, Truist, U.S. Bank and Wells Fargo.

    That said, how banks integrate Zelle into their mobile and electronic platforms has a large effect on satisfaction. Zelle integration is largely customizable, so how and where Zelle’s features appear in each bank’s tool vary.

    Capital One’s P2P customer experience, for example, is enhanced by strong discoverability from the home screen, a pay/move screen featuring a Zelle-centric money movement experience, and a final send screen that displays the recipient’s information to reconfirm money is being sent to the right person.

     

    Breaking Through

    While P2P users are steadfastly loyal to their primary brand, competing providers have a real opportunity to expand their customer base by turning existing users into advocates. Many users are receptive to opening secondary accounts to ensure they can send money across their entire social network. This means an incumbent—or even a new disruptor—doesn’t need to break brand loyalty to make meaningful gains. Sometimes, all it takes is one friend or family member requesting a transfer via another service, and suddenly, that competitor has gained a new user.

    As brands build out their platforms, it is incumbent on them to understand what differentiates the top performers.

     

    Find out More

    This Payments Intelligence Report is based on responses from the JD Power 2025 U.S. P2P Transfers Servicer Satisfaction Study, which included 6,105 responses and was fielded from January to March 2025. It is authored by Sean Gelles, Senior Director, Payments Intelligence. Please contact us at the numbers below to connect with Mr. Gelles or to learn more about the underlying research.

     

    Media Contacts

    Brian Jaklitsch; East Coast; 631-584-2200; [email protected]
    Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]

     

  • While Bank Customers’ Recession Fears Persist, Overall Number of Financially Health Customers Holds Steady at 13-Month High

    Facing a conflicting stream of economic news that contains both positive economic indicators and continued uncertainty over the long-term fate of the United States economy, even the world’s leading economists cannot agree on the likelihood of a U.S. recession in the coming months.  

    Bank customers in the U.S. are less optimistic, with a majority (86%) concerned that a recession will affect their everyday finances. The concern is understandable. According to JD Power data, just 35% of customers are financially healthy.[1] While that level is steady month-over-month, many customers are still feeling the pain of high prices and preparing for the worst. 

    Financial Health Holds Steady Amid Rising Concerns                                                        

    The number of customers who are financially healthy remained steady at 35% for a second consecutive month. This is the first time in over a year that customer health has not regressed after a one-month bump, giving some hope that the recent gains could be sustainable.

    J.D. Power Understanding the Populations Financial Health Status April 2025

     

    Despite the steady financial health numbers, the percentage of bank customers who say the cost of goods is increasing faster than their income rose sharply to 70%. The biggest gain was among healthy customers (59%), up 8 percentage points in the last month. 

    J.D. Power Tracking Consumer Recognition of Inflation

     

    Recession Confessions

    Even as some customers firm up their financial footing, the looming threat of an economic downturn has the majority of people on edge. Overall, 86% are either somewhat or very worried that a recession will make things worse in their everyday life. This rate is highest among overextended customers (54%), followed by healthy customers (53%). 

    J.D. Power How worried are you that recession will make things worse for your everyday life

    When asked how prepared they are for a recession, 18% of customers say they are not at all prepared, and another 22% of customers say they do not know where to begin to get prepared. Just 9% of customers feel comfortable enough to weather a recession in their current economic situation.

    J.D. Power How prepared are you financially for a recession

    Customers cite reducing their discretionary spending (47%), creating or building up an emergency fund (43%), or having more cash available (39%) most often as measures they can take to prepare for a recession. One-third (34%) say pay down debt, while only 9% say having access to more credit or loans. 

    J.D. Power What are the three most important activities for you to prepare for a recession chart

     

    Building Partnerships

    After finally making inroads on financial health, customers are worried about losing that progress. But instead of being paralyzed by fear, customers need to spring into action and plan contingencies. That’s where banks come in.

    Customers seem to understand that preparedness is within their grasp. Instead of leaning on loans and more lines of credit, customers are ready to hunker down, reduce spending, and pay down their debt. But they may need help from their bank to devise a plan. With 40% of customers indicating that they either do not know how to go about preparing or do not know where to start in preparing for an economic lull, banks can tailor their communications to educate and triage in the event of any setbacks. Those who can do this effectively will reap the rewards of healthier customers and better relationships.

    Find out More

    This Banking and Payments Intelligence Report is based on responses from 4,000 retail bank customers nationwide and was fielded in April 2025. It was authored by Jennifer White, senior director of banking and payments intelligence at JD Power. Please contact us at the numbers below to connect with Ms. White or to learn more about the underlying research.

     

    Media Contacts

    Brian Jaklitsch; East Coast; 631-584-2200; [email protected]

    Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]

     

    [1] JD Power measures the financial health of any consumer as a metric combining their spending/savings ratio, creditworthiness, and safety net items like insurance coverage. Consumers are placed on a continuum from healthy to vulnerable.

  • Fixed Wireless Continues to Outpace Fiberoptic and Cable Internet in Customer Satisfaction, Even Amid Surge of New Adopters

    Fixed Wireless Continues to Outpace Fiberoptic and Cable Internet in Customer Satisfaction, Even Amid Surge of New Adopters

    Technology, Media & Telecom Intelligence Report
    June 2025

    Even under increased scrutiny, fixed wireless access (FWA) is still winning the hearts and wallets of consumers.

    According to the JD Power data, customer satisfaction with FWA – a method of 5G or 4G LTE wireless technology that delivers high-speed internet by leveraging existing wireless networks run by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) – continues to be higher than that of fiberoptic and cable service.

    That’s no easy task. After all, for the launch of any new technology there are the early adopters, all of whom immediately see the benefit of a new product of service and are usually enthusiastic about it once they get their hands on it. But as technology gets more widely adopted, weaknesses sometimes reveal themselves. 

    FWA, though, seems to be enjoying a prolonged honeymoon phase. Even as adoption has grown by 47%, now reaching a total of 11.8 million subscribers nationwide, customer satisfaction for both 5G and 4G LTE wireless internet is largely unchanged since a year ago.

    Fixed Wireless Remains Customers’ Top Choice                           

    Customers who have fixed wireless continue to rate 5G FWA as the top choice for satisfaction, regardless of their location. The highest level of satisfaction is once again from customers in urban regions, but FWA performs strongly even in suburban areas, where customers have plenty of options and presumably the resources to choose a more expensive service, and rural areas, where signal reliability may be spotty.

    Internet satisfaction by type June 2025

    Value Wins Customers Over

    Customers are increasingly seeing FWA as better value than fiberoptic and cable internet. At $72, the average monthly cost of wireless internet is nine dollars per month cheaper than the average wired internet plan ($81). Accordingly, 70% of FWA customers agree their plan is affordable compared to 53% of wired internet customers. T-Mobile, arguably the most aggressive company on driving customer awareness on FWA, boasts the highest marks for customer value. 

    Internet by carrier June 2025

    This is a huge win for companies, as most analysts predicted cost will likely play a major factor in adoption within the industry. With exposure to FWA having increased, the fact that customers still see it as good value could be a harbinger of even further adoption. 

    Winning While Growing

    As more and more customers flock to FWA, providers will have a challenge on their hands. Cost is certainly a primary way to entice customers to try FWA, but relying simply on lower prices can mean winning customers that are more brand agnostic and willing to switch again and again. 

    To try to ensure that companies can win customers and keep them, they’ll have to find ways to continually deliver reliability and value. As FWA matures, there will not only be technological improvements but new pain points as well. Companies that can best anticipate how FWA will evolve and stay on the cutting edge will begin to emerge as leaders in the field.

    Find out More

    This Technology, Media & Telecom Intelligence Report is based on data from the 2024 U.S. Residential Internet Service Provider Satisfaction Study, which includes responses from 29,932 customers that currently have internet service with a provider and was fielded from November 2023 through August 2024. It was authored by Carl Lepper, senior director of the technology, media and telecommunications intelligence practice at JD Power. Please contact us at the numbers below to connect with Mr. Lepper or to learn more about the underlying research.

    Media Contacts

    Brian Jaklitsch; East Coast; 631-584-2200; [email protected]

    Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]

  • Direct Banks Are Winning Younger Customers—Challenges Remain

    New findings from the JD Power 2025 U.S. Direct Banking Satisfaction Study reveal how direct banks are shaping the future of banking by delivering more than just competitive rates. Paul McAdam, Senior Director of Banking and Payments Intelligence at JD Power, breaks down what’s driving satisfaction—and where direct banks still have work to do.

    Growth Beyond Rates: Checking Satisfaction Rises

    While savings satisfaction has taken a hit due to falling interest rates, checking satisfaction among direct bank customers is on the rise. What’s behind the upward trend?

    “Customers are feeling like their direct bank checking accounts are helping them grow their money,” McAdam explained. “Not through interest, but through credit access, budgeting tools, and insights into their creditworthiness.”

    These features go beyond the basics, supporting customers in managing their financial lives more holistically. As a result, customers are engaging more and reporting higher satisfaction with their checking relationships.

    Savings Satisfaction Slips Amid Lower Deposit Rates

    In contrast, satisfaction with savings accounts is declining. Interest rates have dropped, and customers are noticing.

    But declining rates aren’t the only issue.

    “We’re also seeing more frustration with website usability,” McAdam noted. “Navigation, login ease, and general user experience are falling short for some brands.”

    With many customers accessing their savings accounts through digital platforms, a smooth experience is critical. Poor digital performance is now a differentiator and not in a good way.

    Younger Customers Are More Engaged—And More Satisfied

    Direct banks are gaining traction with younger customers, especially in the checking space. While the overall profile of a direct bank customer looks similar to a traditional bank customer, subtle differences are emerging.

    “Younger customers are gravitating toward checking products, while older customers are more likely to hold savings accounts with direct banks and larger balances,” said McAdam.

    This year, satisfaction rose among younger generations, thanks largely to their use of tools that support credit management and financial education. In contrast, older customers, particularly Gen X and Boomers, saw their satisfaction decline, driven primarily by lower interest rates.

    Big Brands, Big Competition

    Direct banks are no longer niche players. Leading the way are powerhouse brands like Charles Schwab and American Express—both of which topped the checking satisfaction rankings this year.

    “These customers are serious about their relationships,” McAdam said. “They typically hold three or more accounts with their direct bank provider.”

    The implication for traditional banks is clear: competition is intensifying, and digital-first players are quickly earning customer loyalty.

    When Products Are Equal, Service Matters Most

    Despite similar product offerings across brands, customer service remains a key differentiator, especially when something goes wrong.

    “Direct bank customers don’t experience a lot of issues,” McAdam noted. “But when they do, service quality really matters. The lower-ranked brands are falling short on resolving problems and delivering strong phone support.”

    This is a red flag for providers: product parity means that customer service quality can make or break the overall experience.

    What’s Next for Direct Banking?

    The 2025 study makes it clear that continued success in the direct banking space hinges on a few critical areas:

    • Double down on value-added tools like credit tracking, budgeting, and expense management to keep younger customers engaged.
    • Improve digital usability, especially on the savings side, where outdated platforms are dragging down satisfaction.
    • Don’t overlook service—strong customer support is still one of the most powerful drivers of satisfaction and loyalty.

    As direct banks continue to expand their footprint, delivering seamless and supportive experiences across digital and service channels will be the key to staying ahead.

    Read the full findings in the JD Power 2025 U.S. Direct Banking Satisfaction Study press release.

    Read Press Release

  • Despite Improvements in Reliability and Availability, Public Charging Remains Top Stumbling Block to EV Adoption

    E-Vision Intelligence Report
    June 2025

    Key Findings
    • Public Charging Concerns Remain Top Barriers to EV Adoption: Nationwide, 59% of vehicle shoppers say they are “very likely” or “somewhat likely” to consider purchasing an electric vehicle (EV)—a rate that is unchanged since 2024. Among the remaining 41% of shoppers who are unlikely to consider an EV, concerns related to public charging infrastructure continue to grow, while concerns about cost of ownership and reliability have begun to fade.
    • Public Charging Reliability and Availability Increases Significantly: The percentage of public charging station visitors who were unable to charge their vehicles fell to 16% in the first quarter of 2025 from 20% in the fourth quarter of 2024, marking the largest quarterly improvement in charging station reliability. Customer satisfaction with the availability and speed of charging also improved in the first quarter of 2025.
    • Consumer Demand for Public Charging Availability Highlight Opportunities to Educate: Among EV rejectors who are unlikely to consider an EV based on public charging station availability, 44% said they would reconsider their decision if charging stations were available at least every 25 miles, which is the case in most populated areas of the U.S. today.
    Executive Summary

    The auto industry has some work to do to help consumers get over the stigma surrounding the U.S. public charging network if they want to sell more EVs. Even as public charging station availability and reliability continues to improve, and lingering consumer concerns about EV costs and reliability fade into the background, people who still reject the idea of owning an EV are largely motivated by fears that public charging infrastructure is just not where it needs to be. However, when these concerns are measured against real-world EV ranges and current patterns of EV charging, it becomes clear that the real stumbling block to wider EV adoption is consumer education.

    This E-Vision Intelligence Report dives into key data points gathered from JD Power studies and pulse surveys, to offer a data-driven consumer perspective on the EV customer experience.

    The Public Charging Stigma

    From the first moment EVs became widely available to consumers, two concerns have consistently surfaced as the top barriers to adoption: cost and range anxiety. Cost concerns seem to have reached an inflection point, with key criteria such as purchase price and total cost of ownership declining significantly as the top reasons for EV rejection. Concerns about public charging, however, continue to pose a problem. 

    Among the 41% of new-vehicle shoppers who say they are “very unlikely” or “somewhat unlikely” to consider an EV for their next purchase, lack of charging station availability, limited driving distance per charge and time required to charge continue to be top stumbling blocks.

    Top 5 Reasons for EV Rejection

    Source: JD Power U.S. Electric Vehicle Consideration (EVC) StudySM
    Infrastructure Improvements Not Enough to Offset Consumer Anxiety

    Meanwhile, despite rising consumer concerns, public charging infrastructure has shown considerable improvement during the first three months of 2025 on a nationwide basis. Overall customer satisfaction with public DC Fast Charging increased 6 points (on a 1,000-point scale) in the first quarter of 2025, while satisfaction with Level 2 charging increased 8 points during the same period. This performance improvement was driven most notably by increased satisfaction with the availability of DC Fast Chargers and the speed of Level 2 charging. 

    EV drivers also experienced fewer issues using public chargers. The percentage of public charging station visitors who were unable to charge their vehicles declined to 16% in the first quarter of 2025, down from 20% in the fourth quarter of 2024. The improved public charging success rate has played out on a nationwide basis.

    2025 Q1 Charging Success Rates by US Region

    Source: JD Power U.S. Electric Vehicle Consideration (EVC) StudySM
    Consumer Education is an Issue

    The widespread—and growing—consumer concern about public charging exposes a disconnect between current perception among new-vehicle shoppers and the real-world experiences of EV owners. When asked about their reasons for not considering an EV for their next vehicle, 44% of EV rejectors said they would reconsider their decision if charging stations were available every 25-100 miles. Additionally, when asked about individual vehicle range, 66% of EV rejectors said they would need an EV to cover 500 or more miles on a single charge before they would consider purchasing one. 

    This public charging availability list and lofty range target exposes key aspects of the current consumer psyche that EV manufacturers and dealers will need to address if they want to win more customers. It also highlights some important opportunities to educate consumers on the evolution of the EV experience. In fact, there is currently a public charge point available every 41 miles across the country. Moreover, data from current EV owners shows that 81% of EV charging currently occurs on home chargers, and the majority (56%) of EV owners say their battery range “never” or “rarely” affects their driving habits. Despite those facts, EV rejectors are still not convinced they will not end up stranded on the side of the road. 

    Rejection Follow Up Charging Station Frequency

    Source: JD Power U.S. Electric Vehicle Consideration (EVC) StudySM

    Consumer desire for 500 miles per charge may be more difficult for the industry to reconcile. The average real-world range cited by owners in the JD Power 2025 U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Ownership StudySM is 281 miles, and the average range for gasoline-powered vehicles is 403 miles.[1] While EV manufacturers continue to make gains in range with new battery formulations, the prospect of getting 500 miles per charge may not be a reality for several years. 

    Methodology

    This JD Power E-Vision Intelligence Report is based on data and insights from the JD Power 2025 U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Ownership Study,  the JD Power 2025 U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Public Charging Study and the JD Power 2025 U.S. Electric Vehicle Consideration (EVC) Study

    Find out More

    This report was authored by Brent Gruber, executive director, electric vehicle practice. The JD Power E-Vision initiative is a company-wide program focused on maximizing JD Power industry-leading EV data, analytics, insights and solutions. Please contact us at the numbers below to connect with Mr. Gruber or to learn more about the underlying research.

    Media Contacts

    Shane Smith; East Coast; 424-903-3665; [email protected]

    Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]

     

    [1] U.S. Department of Energy, https://www.energy.gov/eere/vehicles/articles/fotw-1221-january-17-2022-model-year-2021-all-electric-vehicles-had-median 

  • Average TV and Wired Internet Bills Rise in Q1, Unbundled Wireless Internet Costs Fall

    Average TV and Wired Internet Bills Rise in Q1, Unbundled Wireless Internet Costs Fall

    Quarterly Share of Wallet Tracker: TV, Internet and Wireless
    Q1 2025

    As part of its ongoing analysis of customer experience with cable television, streaming, internet and wireless service providers, JD Power tracks the average prices customers report paying for these services nationwide. This average price data is tracked in four waves over the course of the year, which are roughly in line with calendar quarters. The following are key highlights from the Q1 analysis.

    Key Findings

    Cable and Streaming Costs Rise in Q1: The average amount paid for a monthly cable or satellite television bundle was $187.99 through January of 2025. That is $7.69 more than the average price at the end of October 2024, and $1.66 more than January 2024 figures. The average monthly cost for unbundled cable/satellite TV was $121.86 through January 2025, up from $120.93 in October 2024. The average monthly streaming bill was $73.47 in January 2025, up $0.38 from October 2024 and down $1.05 from January 2024.

    Average Monthly TV Bill TMT Q2 2025

    Unbundled Wireless Internet Costs Fall in Q1: The average amount paid for a monthly wired internet bundle was $170.06 through February of 2025. That is $0.92 more than the average price at the end of November 2024, and $7.93 more than February 2024 figures. The average monthly cost for unbundled wired internet was $83.35 through February 2025, up from $82.96 in November 2024. The average monthly wireless internet bundle was $145.40 in February 2025, up $0.19 from November 2024 and down $12.85 from February 2024. The average monthly cost for unbundled wireless internet was $71.53 in February 2025, down from $73.64 in November 2024 and up from $71.45 in February 2024.

    TMT Internet Bill Tracker Report- CHART 1.2

    Takeaways

    Monthly cable, internet and wireless bills have come to occupy a significant share of consumers’ recurring household expenses, so any incremental movements on a quarterly or annualized basis can have a material effect on not only their overall satisfaction with their service providers, but also their purchasing power. While monthly bills have stayed largely steady over the past year, it will be important to see how they respond to current changes in the macroeconomic situation. 

    Methodology

    This JD Quarterly Share of Wallet Tracker for TV, Internet and Wireless is based on data and insights drawn from the JD Power U.S. Television Services Provider Satisfaction Study, the JD Power Residential ISP Customer Satisfaction Study and the JD Power U.S. Wireless Customer Care Performance Study.

    Find out More

    This report was compiled by the technology, media and telecom at JD Power. Please contact us at the numbers below to learn more about the underlying research.

    Media Contacts

    Brian Jaklitsch; East Coast; 631-584-2200; [email protected] 

    Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]