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Americans Set to Spend 10% More This Holiday

11/1/2025

46 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Visa Inc.'s analysis shows Americans expect to spend an average of $736 per person this holiday season, up 10% from last year.
Despite a slowing job market and inflation, consumer resilience remains, with baby boomers planning to spend 21% more.
Lower-income households are projected to spend less than last year, signaling an uneven impact.
Economists say confidence is waning, yet spending persists, driven by stock market gains among high earners.

History

Historical Context

The 2007-2009 recession, triggered by the subprime mortgage crisis, marked a significant economic downturn in the U.S., with consumer spending declining by 3.8% in 2008. Despite this, wealthier households maintained spending levels, highlighting economic disparities. Today, Visa Inc. reports an average holiday spending expectation of $736 per person, indicating ongoing consumer resilience amid inflation and an uneven recovery.

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Story summary

Visa Inc.'s analysis shows Americans expect to spend an average of $736 per person this holiday season, up 10% from last year.
Despite a slowing job market and inflation, consumer resilience remains, with baby boomers planning to spend 21% more.
Lower-income households are projected to spend less than last year, signaling an uneven impact.
Economists say confidence is waning, yet spending persists, driven by stock market gains among high earners.

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