Consumer has held up and continuing to shop despite K-shaped economy: Former Saks CEO Steve Sadove

Consumer Resilience & Economic Trends - US consumer spending has remained surprisingly resilient, defying expectations of weakening [1][2] - A "K-shaped" economy exists, with high-end consumers benefiting from the stock market (09% R-squared correlation between stock market and luxury sales at Sachs), while lower-end consumers are stretched and focused on value [3] - Overall consumer spending has weathered tariffs and is projected to grow by approximately 4% for the holiday season, similar to October's growth [4] Retail Performance & Strategies - Value and innovation are key for successful companies, with Walmart, TJX, and Ross Stores (off-price retailers) executing well due to tight price points [5][6] - Off-price retailers are gaining market share from department stores, as the high-low department store model faces more stress [7] - Costco and Walmart are winning on multiple dimensions, including value and membership models, attracting both high-end ($100,000+ income) and lower-end consumers [8][9][12] - Walmart is experiencing growth in fashion apparel, taking share from Target, while Costco offers finds that appeal to high-end consumers [10][11]