US firms grapple with economic divide as lower income struggles mount

Core Insights - U.S. companies are experiencing a divide in consumer behavior, with lower-income households cutting back on spending while affluent consumers continue to support overall spending levels [1][2][4] Consumer Behavior - There is a noticeable bifurcation in consumer behavior, with financially secure consumers opting for larger pack sizes, while those living paycheck to paycheck are actively seeking discounts due to persistent inflation above the Federal Reserve's 2% target [2] - Consumer sentiment surveys indicate growing pessimism regarding future economic conditions, with inflation currently at a 3% rate. Nearly two-thirds of consumers plan to delay holiday shopping until Thanksgiving weekend to take advantage of discounts, an increase from 59% last year [3] Company Strategies - Companies like Procter & Gamble and Coca-Cola are adapting by introducing smaller-sized products aimed at lower-income consumers, such as Coca-Cola's mini single-serve cans [4] - Coca-Cola's CFO highlighted the importance of affordability and value for lower-income consumers, indicating a dual strategy to cater to both ends of the market [5] - Target is responding to changing consumer dynamics by cutting approximately 1,800 jobs as part of a turnaround strategy, focusing on its non-essential product offerings that lower-income consumers have been avoiding [5] Market Performance - Despite the S&P 500 gaining nearly 15% this year, the SPDR Consumer Staples ETF, which tracks basic consumer needs, has seen only a marginal increase of less than 1% [6] Credit Market Concerns - The credit market is facing challenges, highlighted by recent bankruptcy filings from lenders serving lower-income groups, such as PrimaLend Capital Partners, which finances car purchases for customers with limited credit [7]