American Express reported stronger-than-expected third-quarter earnings, driven by consistent spending from its cardholders, many of whom are holding balances. For the period ending September 30, the credit card giant earned $2.51 billion, or $3.49 per share, compared to $2.45 billion, or $3.30 per share, in the same period a year earlier.

American Express ($AXP) reported mixed results for the third quarter. The payments processing company generated earnings of $3.49 per share, up