Record holiday sales helped retailers, but purchasing patterns across income groups diverged starkly. Middle- and lower-income consumers grew more selective, carefully weighing where and when to spend amid economic uncertainty. Meanwhile, higher-income shoppers continued to spend freely.

Issuers are relying more than ever on this segment to bolster payment volume and revenues.

While sustainability is a factor in consumers’ decision-making, financial constraints and convenience still dictate most purchasing behavior.

Higher prices could impede volume growth and raise credit card issuers’ delinquencies

Trump’s tariff reprieve exacerbates uncertainty: The stop-and-start nature to the administration’s economic policy keeps retailers—and consumers—on edge.

US consumer spending was resilient in 2024, but confidence is fading: Tariffs, layoffs, and inflation fears threaten to slow momentum as economic uncertainty looms.

McDonald’s zigs when others zag: Rather than follow the lead of Denny's and Waffle House in adding an egg surcharge, the fast food giant is slashing the price of its Egg McMuffin.

The digital landscape in Europe is slowing, but opportunities for advertisers, brands, and retailers still exist. Knowing where to look to achieve the best outcomes will be paramount.

Consumers are voting with their wallets: 1 in 4 has stopped shopping at their favorite stores because of politics.

Amid real challenges, retailers get a glimmer of good news: Retail sales rose 4.2% YoY in January, and spending at restaurants and bars jumped 5.4% YoY.

Three-quarters of consumers will reduce spending if tariffs lead to higher prices: Dining out, apparel, and live entertainment are the most likely candidates for cutbacks.

Levi’s delivers downbeat outlook as uncertainty roils retail industry: The company expects potential tariffs, FX headwinds, and higher taxes to weigh on its 2025 performance.

Airline and hotel co-brand credit cards are contending with shifting travel spending trends and rising competition from general travel cards. Tapping into Gen Z’s love of experiences and exclusivity can help them stand out in a crowded field.

The economy is trending in a positive direction: US consumer prices rose in December by less than forecast. We expect the Fed will stick with a wait-and-see approach.

The economy is looking good as the calendar turns to 2025: Consumers are in a good position to spend, but the new administration’s policies could change that trajectory.

Consumers focused on value in 2024: Retailers and brands like Aldi, e.l.f. Beauty, Temu, and Walmart benefited from consumers' growing cost consciousness.

US retailers have closed more than 7,100 stores this year: That’s up 69% YoY, and more are coming as retailers like Macy’s and Advance Auto Parts struggle to convince cautious consumers to spend.

Steep discounts drove shoppers to splurge on Black Friday: Consumers scooped up bargains across several categories, helping online sales jump 14.6% YoY the day after Thanksgiving.

Women drive 80% of healthcare decisions, but aren’t a marketing priority: Healthcare and pharma marketers that don’t prioritize accurate portrayals of women in their ads are leaving a massive amount of money on the table.