The numbers: Consumer borrowing remained strong in December, although slower than the torrid pace seen in the prior month, according to the Federal Reserve on Wednesday. Total consumer credit increased $18.4 billion in December to a record seasonally adjusted $3.84 trillion, posting an annual growth rate of 5.8%. This is down from a revised $31 billion rate in the prior month. Economists had been expecting a $20 billion increase in December. What happened: Revolving credit like credit cards rose 6% in December, less than half the 13% pace seen in November. Nonrevolving credit, typically auto and student loans, rose ... (full story)