Core Insights - Artificial intelligence has significantly influenced retail during Black Friday, acting as a crucial intermediary in consumer shopping behavior [1][5][7] Group 1: AI's Impact on Retail - AI-driven traffic to retail websites increased over 800%, highlighting its role in shaping consumer decisions amid economic concerns [5][7] - Worldwide, AI agents contributed to $14.2 billion in online Black Friday spending, with over $3 billion from the U.S. alone [6] Group 2: E-commerce Performance - U.S. online spending reached $11.8 billion, a 9.1% increase from the previous year, while e-commerce grew by 10.4%, outpacing a mere 1.7% rise in in-store sales [5] - Despite increased spending, consumers purchased fewer items per order due to higher prices affecting budgets [7] Group 3: Investment Opportunities - Technology-focused ETFs, such as iShares U.S. Technology ETF (IYW) and Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF (AIQ), are well-positioned to benefit from the AI-driven retail landscape [2][3] - Funds like First Trust Dow Jones Internet Index Fund (FDNI) are also strategically placed to capture the evolving retail funnel influenced by AI [4]