LeadStory

How was holiday spending this year in the US?

Asked 3 hours ago

Answer

Holiday spending in the US reached record highs, surpassing $1 trillion for the first time, with robust consumer activity despite inflation and affordability concerns. Online shopping dominated, and value retailers thrived as many consumers set strict budgets. High-income households drove much of the spending, while lower-income families cut back. Political debate over rising prices intensified, but Americans continued to celebrate the season.

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CBS America

Some Americans kept spending in 2025 despite concerns about economy

CBS America · Just In
CBS America
CBS America
Just In
  • US GDP grew 4.3% in Q3 2025, driven by consumer spending 3s
  • Top 10% of earners account for half of all spending; disparity is growing 42s
  • Lower-income households face rising debt and delinquencies 1m 5s
  • Unemployment rate hit 4.6%, with job growth mainly in health care 1m 54s
  • Gold prices reached $4,500, projected to rise amid market volatility 3m 7s

References

Some Americans kept spending in 2025 despite concerns about economy
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CBS America
4 hours ago
Some Americans kept spending in 2025 despite concerns about economy

Economists note high-income households are driving spending increases, while low-income earners continue to cut back.

Consumers resilient despite shortened holiday season
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CNBC
6 hours ago
Consumers resilient despite shortened holiday season

Value retailers like Walmart and dollar stores performed well due to consumers having less money and less time to shop.

Consumers resilient despite shortened holiday season
Icon
CNBC
6 hours ago
Consumers resilient despite shortened holiday season

Consumers are shifting spending toward essentials like clothing and food, with inflation and budget constraints persisting.

U.S. holiday spending hits 20-year high
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Al Jazeera
2 days ago
U.S. holiday spending hits 20-year high

Online shopping dominates holiday sales, confirming a shift away from in-person shopping, though some consumers still prefer stores for browsing and trying items.

U.S. holiday spending hits 20-year high
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Al Jazeera
2 days ago
U.S. holiday spending hits 20-year high

Despite the shopping spree, concerns about rising costs persist, with prices driven up by tariff policy and inflation nearing 3%, making affordability a major political issue.

Holiday sales to surpass $1 trillion for first time in 2025: NRF
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CNBC
4 days ago
Holiday sales to surpass $1 trillion for first time in 2025: NRF

The National Retail Federation expects retail sales to exceed $1 trillion for the first time this year, with growth projected between 3.7% and 4.2% over last year.

Holiday shoppers out in force, but concerns over consumer sentiment linger
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CBS America
6 days ago
Holiday shoppers out in force, but concerns over consumer sentiment linger

The National Retail Federation predicts a record 159 million shoppers on 'Super Saturday,' with nearly a third buying gifts in stores.

Holiday shoppers out in force, but concerns over consumer sentiment linger
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CBS America
6 days ago
Holiday shoppers out in force, but concerns over consumer sentiment linger

Consumer sentiment is down nearly 30% from last December, the lowest level in over three years, as higher costs prompt strict budgeting.

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