The distinct influences of financial information intermediaries on consumer rationalisation of vehicle finance

According to the classical economics theory, consumers are sovereign economic entities motivated to maximise their wellbeing. One strategy used to rationalise credit choices is through consultation of information intermediaries. While the literature recognises the notion that financial information intermediaries are exogenous in form and substance, the distinct influence of each information intermediary on consumer financial rationalisation has not been examined a priori - an objective of this study. Using a sample drawn from Melbourne residents, a proposed theoretical model was empirically tested. The results were suggestive that financial information intermediaries significantly influenced consumers’ vehicle finance rationalisation. Furthermore, different financial information intermediaries seemed to have distinct influence on borrowers’ vehicle finance decisions. The implications of the study findings are discussed.