Which type of establishment typically charges the highest interest rate on a loan?

The type of establishment that typically charges the highest interest rate on a loan is a pawnshop. Pawnshops lend money based on the value of an item that the borrower provides as collateral. This allows them to take on higher risks since they are lending to individuals who might not qualify for loans from traditional financial institutions due to poor credit or financial instability. As a result, pawnshops often charge significantly higher interest rates to compensate for that risk and ensure their profitability.

In contrast, credit unions and commercial banks tend to offer lower interest rates because they have lower operating costs and are more regulated. Online lenders can also charge competitive interest rates, but they often cater to individuals with good credit, allowing them to offer more favorable terms. Therefore, pawnshops stand out as the establishment that typically has the highest interest rates due to their unique lending model and the risk factors involved.