During the Great Depression, what did New Deal policymakers demonstrate about consumer credit?

The correct answer highlights that New Deal policymakers acknowledged the profitability of consumer credit for commercial banks during the Great Depression. This period marked a significant shift in how consumer credit was perceived and utilized within the economy.

Policymakers recognized that consumer credit could stimulate economic activity by allowing individuals to make purchases and manage their finances despite the challenging economic conditions. This approach provided banks a new avenue for generating income through interest on loans, thus reinforcing the banking sector as a critical player in economic recovery.

The focus on profitability indicates that consumer credit, when managed properly, could benefit not just consumers but also financial institutions, suggesting a potential for recovery and growth during dire financial times. This perspective laid the groundwork for future developments in consumer finance and lending practices that have become standard today.