I don't think they meant anything about Europeans since Amex is primarily an American brand. I think the data proves it out and it could also have something to

I don't think they meant anything about Europeans since Amex is primarily an American brand. I think the data proves it out and it could also have something to do with their history as a charge card (i mentioned in another comment). A charge card means that if you decide to put $10k on the card to buy a new big thing, you need to have 10k to pay it off at the end of the month. That would logically self-select for people who have the financial ability to pay off a card that has an 'unlimited limit'. As the card levels go up, you've also got hefty fees ($500+) which again select for people who view $500 as a small price compared to the benefits. I think the OP was rational in their conclusion. Sidenote, it also has nothing to do with 'debt fueled economy' -- there's no debt accrued with charge cards.