Core Insights - The article discusses the current state of consumer confidence, highlighting its fluctuations and potential implications for the economy [1][2]. Group 1: Consumer Confidence - Consumer confidence has shown signs of volatility, which may impact spending behaviors and overall economic growth [1]. - Recent surveys indicate that consumer sentiment has decreased, reflecting concerns over inflation and economic stability [2]. Group 2: Economic Implications - A decline in consumer confidence could lead to reduced consumer spending, which is a critical driver of economic activity [1]. - The article suggests that policymakers should monitor consumer confidence closely as it can serve as an early indicator of economic trends [2].

Market Outlook - The market is expected to continue its bull run, but growth will be moderate, with projected S&P returns in the 7200s, reflecting a 3 to 5% increase from current levels [4][7] - The leadership in the market is changing, with a broadening of sectors, particularly in technology, where there will be both winners and losers [5][6] Sector Analysis - Financials and industrials are highlighted as strong sectors, with major banks like JP Morgan and Goldman Sachs performing well [9][10] - The transport sector is also noted for its potential, with companies like FedEx and UPS showing signs of recovery and growth [11][12] Economic Indicators - The financial sector is seen as a barometer of market confidence, with ongoing M&A activity and IPOs indicating a healthy environment despite consumer confidence hitting record lows [14][15] - The upcoming midterm elections are expected to create volatility, but gridlock could set up favorable conditions for the market in 2027 [7] Risks and Concerns - Potential legal challenges regarding tariffs could introduce uncertainty, impacting market confidence and performance [16][17] - The transition to a new Fed chair and the upcoming meetings are anticipated to create volatility, as new voting members may influence market dynamics [18][19]

Economic Data Overview - The week ahead includes the release of key economic reports, notably the initial estimate of third-quarter GDP, which was delayed due to a government shutdown [3][4] - The Bureau of Economic Analysis will only provide two GDP reports for Q3 instead of the usual three, with the final report scheduled for January 22 [4] Market Schedule - Stock markets will close early at 1 p.m. EST on December 24 and remain closed on December 25 for the Christmas holiday [7][10] - Bond markets will close at 2 p.m. EST on December 24 [10] Key Reports to Watch - Reports scheduled for release include durable goods orders for October, industrial production, and capacity utilization data for October and November, along with the December consumer confidence survey [5][10] - Weekly jobless claims data will also be highlighted following an increase in unemployment reported for November [6][10]

Group 1 - The article highlights that a shortened trading week will feature third-quarter gross domestic product growth estimates from the Bureau of Economic Analysis [1]

US consumers spent the past year getting more worried about their wallets and the future: Here’s your Evening Briefing https://t.co/JwUmcayw79 ...

New Zealand business confidence soared to a three-decade high in December and the mood of consumers also surged, adding to signs of further economic expansion in the fourth quarter and into 2026 https://t.co/9g6vgSh4Ib ...

Core Insights - British consumer confidence and spending are subdued as the Christmas season approaches, indicating a challenging retail environment for companies like Currys [1] - The recent government budget did not provide significant support to boost consumer spending, further impacting the retail sector [1] Company Insights - Currys, an electrical retailer, has expressed concerns regarding the muted consumer confidence and spending patterns, which could affect sales performance during the critical holiday season [1] - The company's leadership highlights the need for more effective government measures to stimulate consumer spending [1]

Good morning. CFOs are ending 2025 more confident, even as they confront a mixed growth outlook and mounting pressure to deliver efficiency gains from AI. Deloitte’s Q4 2025 CFO Signals report, released this morning, finds the CFO Confidence Score at 6.6, higher than the Q3 reading of 5.7, and the highest score since late 2021. The score, the highest 10, measures CFO confidence in economic conditions and sentiment about the capital markets. CFOs raised their assessment of the North American economy this q ...

Australia’s consumer confidence slumped in December as the Reserve Bank indicated that its brief easing cycle has come to an end and there’s the potential for a return to interest-rate hikes in 2026 https://t.co/9hwiTu7ruD ...

Core Insights - The holiday shopping season is impacted by high tariffs on imported goods, leading to increased prices and cautious consumer spending [2][4][5] - Retailers are adjusting their product offerings to focus on more profitable items and are experiencing a shift in consumer purchasing behavior [3][6] Group 1: Retail Impact - The Ah Louis Store has transformed into a holiday destination but faces challenges in converting browsers into buyers due to economic factors [1][2] - Retailers are noticing a trend of customers opting for less expensive gift options, indicating a shift towards cautious spending [3][5] - The Gallup index reflecting consumer sentiment has dropped to a 17-month low, with holiday gift budgets decreasing by $229 from October to November [5] Group 2: Tariff Effects on Specific Categories - Toys and games are particularly affected by tariffs, with price increases ranging from 5% to 20% for 80% of inventory, impacting consumer purchasing decisions [7][9] - Consumer electronics, primarily sourced from China, have seen price adjustments due to tariffs, with Best Buy adapting its inventory to attract lower-income shoppers [10][11] - Jewelry prices are rising due to the increasing cost of gold and varying tariff rates, with potential future increases anticipated if tariffs remain in place [13][15] Group 3: Holiday Decorations and Strategic Shopping - Holiday decorations, largely imported from overseas, have also seen price increases due to tariffs, with specific items like red berry stems rising from $8.95 to $10.95 [16][17] - Consumers are advised to consider secondhand stores and discount retailers to avoid tariff-related price hikes, as these outlets often sell leftover stock [18]