Rising Inflation, Relentless Pandemic Dampen U.S. Consumer Confidence

U.S. consumer confidence dropped to a nine-month low in November amid worries about the rising cost of living and pandemic fatigue, but that did not change expectations for stronger economic growth this quarter.

The survey from the Conference Board on Tuesday showed consumers less enthusiastic about buying a house and big-ticket items such as motor vehicles and major household appliances over the next six months, likely because of shortages, which have boosted prices. Consumers held strong views of the labor market, with the gap between those saying jobs are plentiful...

Walmart Serves Up Savings on Thanksgiving Meal

As we approach our second holiday season since the pandemic began, concern over rising costs and short supply has stirred up a conversation centered on uncertainty about the Thanksgiving meal. But amidst it all, here’s what we’re certain of: Walmart is ready. We planned early for Thanksgiving, and we’re setting the table with savings, assortment and convenience.

Five Years of Savings on Thanksgiving Dinner
This year, customers shopping Walmart for their Thanksgiving meal can expect to save more than $14 (or nearly 28%) compared to the national average price reported by the...

Retail Sales Rise, Showing Strong Consumer Demand and Higher Inflation

Americans stepped up their spending in September, a sign of resilient demand and rising inflation as consumers head into the holiday shopping season.

Sales at retail stores, restaurants and online sellers rose a seasonally adjusted 0.7% in September from the previous month, the Commerce Department said Friday. The rise in sales reflects persistently strong demand and higher consumer prices.

Consumers, armed with stimulus payments and rising wages, have stepped up spending this year, shrugging off the Delta variant of Covid-19, the end of enhanced unemployment benefits and... 

North American Meat Institute Urges President Biden to Act on Unfair Ocean Carrier Practices

The North American Meat Institute (Meat Institute), along with more than 70 agriculture associations, today called on President Joe Biden to address ocean carrier practices that are causing increased costs and delays for American businesses. To underscore the urgency of this crisis, and the need for immediate action from a broad cross-section of stakeholders, the organizations also delivered the letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers Cecilia Rouse, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Chair Dan Maffei.

Despite some positive steps implemented by the Administration, “the problem not only persists, but is becoming...