It’s not just you. This holiday season feels a little ho-hum. Sure, tree decorations still sparkle, hot chocolate is still sweet and the wind is a little chillier. But the shopping—the crux of American winter holiday culture—has not started off so bright.
On Black Friday, retail spending increased by just 2.5% from last year, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse. Online sales increased 7.5% to $9.8 billion, and the overall weekend is expected to reach at least $37.2 billion in spending, an increase of 5% from last year, according to Adobe Analytics. TD Cowen went as far as lowering its holiday forecast in a note on Friday to 2-3% year-over-year growth versus a previously estimated 4-5% because of the slow start to the season.
The figures don’t suggest any type of economic collapse. But they certainly underscore the challenge facing retailers that can’t seem to convince shoppers to snatch up mediocre deals. Shoppers are smart; businesses need to be smarter.
Esta historia es de la edición November 30, 2023 de Mint Mumbai.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición November 30, 2023 de Mint Mumbai.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Reduction of energy costs in the telecom sector
With telecom infrastructure companies looking for newer ways to cut back on energy costs, battery restoration technology provides telecom infrastructure firms with a viable, economical and green solution for uninterrupted power supply
Skip cheese and sip wine in Switzerland
Beyond chocolates and cheese, there's another Swiss gem to discover — vineyards that have been passed down through the generations
Bankers aren't always frank about bank regulation
The 'world's banker' Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, speaks his mind even if it means taking swipes at US regulators.
Baku: A climate breakthrough looks depressingly bleak today
The success of fossil fuel-favouring politics threatens the planet
Global solidarity levies can play a vital role in our climate efforts
Solidarity taxes could support redistributive measures and optimize how we collectively tackle a great challenge of our times
Speak for the Earth: It's the least we should do
This year's Booker prize winner turns our gaze to the planet from orbit and reminds us of the climate disaster that looms. Can odes sung to Earth move the world to act in its defence?
Aim for an efficient carbon market right from the start
India's economy is projected to grow dramatically over the next few decades. In nominal terms, it may double in size by 2030. This is exciting, but it comes with a significant risk.
Why health insurers refuse to cover certain treatments
While 12 modern treatments are covered, many advanced procedures are yet to be included
Address economic distress with structural reforms and not doles
Cash transfers may offer short-term relief but raising worker incomes is the only lasting solution
FUNDING FOREIGN EDUCATION: SHOULD YOU SAVE OR BORROW?
Education financing needs vary, but early planning is key to building your desired corpus
