A growing number of young adults in the Netherlands are using buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) services like Klarna and Riverty, raising concerns among politicians and experts about potential debt problems. Research indicates that over half of young Dutch individuals aged 16 to 27 utilize these services, attracted by their convenience and flexibility.

However, critics warn that this trend can lead to financial difficulties, especially among those under 25, who are overrepresented in payment arrears. While BNPL companies emphasize the benefits for consumers, such as added security for online purchases, budget experts argue that these services contribute to a lack of financial oversight among young people.

Myrthe Bernaards, a 28-year-old who previously accumulated €20,000 in debt, including €1,800 with Klarna, shared her experience of becoming addicted to buying things on credit. She highlights the ease with which users can accumulate debt, losing track of their spending and facing financial consequences like difficulty paying for essential services.

Klarna and similar services generate revenue by charging commissions to webshops when customers choose to pay later, incentivizing shops to promote these payment options. Studies suggest that offering BNPL options can increase sales for webshops, as customers are more likely to make purchases when they don’t have to pay immediately.

Despite the risks, many young users continue to use BNPL services, citing reasons such as the ability to have products in hand before paying and the convenience of avoiding traditional banking procedures. Some users view Klarna as a form of insurance, providing added security for online purchases.

However, experts caution that the perceived control over finances is often an illusion, with many young people losing track of their spending due to the variety of payment methods available. They emphasize the need to educate young people about responsible spending habits and the potential risks of using BNPL services.

Klarna has faced criticism for not adequately protecting minors, with many children previously able to circumvent age checks. The company has since tightened its age verification process, requiring new users to upload a photo of their ID.

Furthermore, due to European legislation, BNPL companies will be subject to stricter regulations and oversight by the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) from November 2026. This will include stricter requirements for credit checks and increased monitoring to ensure compliance with the law.