Podcasts about Consumer spending

P.M. Edition for Aug. 31. The second quarter was a good one for S&P 500 companies. Per-share earnings soared 53% and many companies have raised their guidance. WSJ reporter Theo Francis explains what's propelling those gains. Plus, the Federal Trade Commission sues Amazon for allegedly manipulating prices for ads on its site—and making billions from merchants. And the Supreme Court allows President Trump to keep building his White House ballroom. Pierre Bienaimé hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 310 opens with Steve Dennis reporting back from an invitation-only Amazon analyst day in Seattle, two days focused on Prime and grocery. Steve unpacks the breadth of the Prime flywheel, Amazon's push into sub-one-day delivery, the drone facility he toured just before the company announced an expansion to roughly 500 markets, and why Amazon's rise to the number two grocer in North America should have rivals looking over their shoulders. Then, the numbers. US retail sales grew about 5% excluding fuel. Walmart delivered a lackluster 2.6% US comp, its weakest in six years, offset by a 46% jump in global advertising and nearly $3 billion in tariff refunds the company says it will reinvest in price. Target posted a nearly 4% comp with traffic up 3.6%; real progress, though Steve cautions the invitation can be better than the party. In off-price, TJX comped 4% while Ross Stores turned in a second straight double-digit quarter. And Simon Property Group made the case that great physical retail is alive and well. The interview, recorded live at the CommerceNext Growth Show in New York, features Scott Friend, Partner at Bain Capital Ventures, and Indy Guha, General Partner at VMG Partners. Scott co-founded price optimization pioneer ProfitLogic before joining BCV twenty years ago; Indy co-leads VMG's commerce infrastructure fund after scaling Signifyd. Together they tackle a hard question: when AI makes everything easier to build, how do you tell a real company from a pitch formula? Their answer centers on founder clarity and earned domain expertise, because a couple of quarters' head start has never mattered more. The conversation ranges across whether personalization and merchandising optimization are now table stakes, the surveillance pricing debate, AI-driven homogeneity versus the promise of the "N of one" customer journey, and Indy's memorable "Claude-proof" test for anyone building in commerce. Both push back on agentic commerce hype, arguing agents will own low-interest replenishment missions while people keep the treasure hunt. Scott points to the revenue ramp of AI-native companies as evidence this cycle is real, not overhyped. Both land in the same place: brand, community, and authenticity are the last durable moats, and retail teams must become architects rather than assembly-line workers. Back in studio, on the radar: Steve tracks the bond market, with 30-year Treasuries at a 19-year high and the 10-year at 4.75%, squeezing discretionary income and retailer expansion plans alike. Michael watches Canadian icon Roots, newly sold to New York's Marquee Brands with Joe Mimran advising on merchandising, and asks whether the brand can reclaim its former glory. Registration is open for a special webinar featuring Steve in conversation with Placer AI's Head of Analytical Research RJ Hottovy. From changing shopping patterns to emerging market opportunities, shifting consumer demand continues to reshape the industry. So don't miss this data-driven session unpacking the most important trends defining today's marketplace and the strategies leading brands are using to win retail's future. It's all brought to you by Placer.AI and It all happens on Tuesday September 29 at 1pm ET..Register here today:https://www.placer.ai/discover-events/discover-shifting-consumer-demand About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling author of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the NRF as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2026 and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

The Dark Horse of Consumer SpendingRetail is obsessed with the next consumer.What does Gen Z want? How will younger shoppers change stores? Which brands, experiences, and trends will win their attention?But while everyone looks ahead, retail may be overlooking one of the most powerful consumers in the market right now.Gen X accounted for $15.2 trillion in global consumer spending in 2025 - that's more than the entire spending power of ChinaGen X are in their peak earning years, but that's only part of the story. Many are making purchasing decisions for households that stretch in both directions, from their children to their aging parents.That makes Gen X more than a valuable demographic. It gives them outsized influence over where money is being spent and what consumers need from the places they visit.And we may already be seeing the impact in retail real estate.The growth of service tenants, demand for health and wellness concepts, the value placed on convenience and quality, and the evolution of shopping centers into places where consumers can accomplish multiple things in one trip all align with the needs of a generation with money to spend and very little time to waste.“Gen X is the overlooked generation that is kind of a spending dark horse,” said Natalie Chambers, Executive Creative Director at The Dealey Group in her conversation on Retail Retold with Chris Ressa. “Retail real estate, in particular, should pay attention to what Gen X is looking for.”Because understanding who is spending is only the beginning.The bigger opportunity is understanding what that spending power changes: the brands that grow, the services consumers seek out, the tenant mixes that drive repeat visits, and ultimately, what makes a shopping center more relevant to the communities it serves.Gen X may be the forgotten generation.Retail can't afford to forget about them.What You'll HearWhy Gen X is retail's “dark horse”The power of the “sandwich generation”What's driving the rise of services in retailWhy Gen X may be the bridge between analog life and AIThe connection between Gen X and the longevity boomThe growing value and influence of consumer reviewsHow shopping centers are evolving for multiple generationsWhy intentional spending is gaining groundChapters01:16 — The consumer signals worth watchingNatalie breaks down the Dealy Group's mid-year trend work and the signals that put Gen X on the radar.01:52 — Why Gen X is suddenly having a momentFrom fashion to pop culture, Gen X influence is showing up in places marketers may not expect.03:16 — The $15.2 trillion wake-up callThe spending data that changes the conversation about how much attention Gen X deserves.04:51 — The consumer in the middle of everythingWhy being the “sandwich generation” gives Gen X influence over spending across multiple age groups.07:38 — What Gen X actually valuesQuality, efficiency and clarity; and why “worth the money” may matter more than simply buying more.09:02 — Is Gen X driving the rise of services?Natalie connects Gen X behavior to service-oriented leasing, while Chris offers another explanation for the shift.12:12 — Why repeat visits matterHow landlords are using service tenants to build retail ecosystems consumers need to visit again and again.13:08 — The generation between analog and AINatalie argues Gen X occupies a unique cultural position. Chris challenges whether that advantage will last.18:36 — Why analog is backVinyl, film, BMX bikes and nostalgia reveal a growing appetite for experiences outside the digital world.25:01 — Longevity is becoming retailWhy wellness concepts focused on staying healthier longer could be another expression of Gen X demand.27:24 — Do online reviews deserve our trust?Chris and Natalie debate who actually writes reviews; and whether those people represent the consumers relying on them.35:02 — Designing retail for three generations at onceWhy green space, restaurants, services and gathering places can solve a very practical Gen X problem.36:49 — Consumers are getting more intentionalFunctional gifts, planning around sales and buying for utility point toward a more deliberate spending mindset.37:43 — The Gen X opportunityNatalie's final argument: retail real estate should pay closer attention to what this overlooked but influential consumer wants.

Liz Peek discusses the resilience of the American economy, noting that high-end consumer spending remains strong despite recession fears. Small businesses are reportedly "humming," with hiring and profitability reaching their highest levels since 2026. This economic momentum is increasingly driven by a massive boom in AI development, which has created an exponential demand for long-term capital. However, this appetite for money is pressuring the bond market, leading to higher mortgage rates that hinder the housing industry. Peek highlights a growing divide between red and blue states, where the former are more likely to embrace AI investment while the latter resist it. She also addresses the influence of Hasan Piker, a radical Twitch streamer who mobilizes young men for Democratic candidates like Abdul El-Sayed. Despite concerns about AI-related job losses, Peek argues it is a vital tool for productivity and medical advancement. (1)

TABLE OF CONTENTS, JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-18-2026Liz Peek discusses the resilience of the American economy, noting that high-end consumer spending remains strong despite recession fears. Small businesses are reportedly "humming," with hiring and profitability reaching their highest levels since 2026. This economic momentum is increasingly driven by a massive boom in AI development, which has created an exponential demand for long-term capital. However, this appetite for money is pressuring the bond market, leading to higher mortgage rates that hinder the housing industry. Peek highlights a growing divide between red and blue states, where the former are more likely to embrace AI investment while the latter resist it. She also addresses the influence of Hasan Piker, a radical Twitch streamer who mobilizes young men for Democratic candidates like Abdul El-Sayed. Despite concerns about AI-related job losses, Peek argues it is a vital tool for productivity and medical advancement. (1)Jonathan Schanzer examines the fractured state of Hamas, noting the group currently controls only 30% of Gaza while facing internal discord over potential disarmament. International negotiators are discussing a "disarm first" condition, which Hamas leadership currently rejects, demanding an Israeli withdrawal instead—a term Schanzer deems unacceptable to any Israeli leader. The conversation turns to Iran, where Donald Trump has threatened to bomb Omandue to its perceived collaboration with the Iranian regime. Despite its "Switzerland of the Middle East" reputation, Oman hosts Houthi and IRGC headquarters, facilitating intelligence and weapon transfers. Schanzer warns that Iran is in "war mode," coordinating closely with its proxy network to prepare for future violence. He also details the rapid rearmament of the Syrian military under Turkish and Russian influence, which concerns Israel. Finally, a new Sunni alliance between Pakistan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia seeks to diminish Iranian Shiite power. (2)Gregory Copley analyzes China's recent ICBM test in the South China Sea, interpreting it as "Wolf Warrior diplomacy" designed to signal naval reach to the US and regional neighbors. Australia is countering this threat through the AUKUSand Five Eyes alliances, though Copley notes a lack of cohesion between current heads of government. He highlights Canada's significant pivot under Mark Carney toward independent defense spending, reaching 5% of GDP to secure the Northwest Passage and Arctic interests. Regarding Yemen, Copley argues the Houthis represent the legitimate military weight of North Yemen, while the internationally recognized government is merely a "Saudi puppet." He suggests Western diplomacy should deal directly with the Houthis rather than adhering to Saudi preferences. Additionally, Copley provides a historical defense of Charles I, arguing his execution was an illegal abrogation of the social contract. He maintains that constitutional monarchies remain a viable and flourishing modern system. (3)Mary Kissel discusses the strained US-South Korea alliance, where disagreements over military funding have prompted Seoul to seek independent nuclear-powered submarine capabilities. She characterizes North Korea as a reckless actor that has committed tens of thousands of combat troops and ballistic missiles to aid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Kissel critiques the "transactional nature" of current diplomacy, noting that contradictory signals toward Kim Jong-unundermine national security strategies. Regarding Oman, she defends the nation as a moderate partner vital for counterterrorism and the release of detained Americans, viewing Trump's threats to bomb the country as an expression of frustration over Iran. Kissel also highlights political successes in South America, where center-right victories in Colombia and Chile represent a return to capitalist principles and closer ties with the US. She concludes by noting that environmental factors like El Niño will soon challenge regional stability in Brazil. (4)Joseph Sternberg addresses the looming "year of doom" in 2032, when the Social Security trust fund is projected to run out. Without reform, benefits could be slashed by 22% to match current payroll tax revenues, creating a massive political crisis. Sternberg explores potential remedies such as means testing for high-earners like Elon Musk or raising the payroll tax cap, though he warns these could impact broader economic growth. He highlights the generational fairness issue of asking younger workers to fund benefits that baby boomers were unprepared to pay for themselves. The discussion also covers the rise of Hasan Piker, a popular Twitch streamer who broadcasts far-left economic views to a younger audience. While Piker is photogenic and compelling, Sternberg describes him as a "popularizer" rather than a deep thinker. Piker's pugnacious approach serves as a bellwether for whether radical progressive ideas can succeed in general elections. (5)Thaddeus McCotter analyzes the recent Michigan Democratic primary, where Dr. Abdul El-Sayed narrowly defeated the establishment candidate, Haley Stevens. El-Sayed, an "anti-establishment" fighter endorsed by Bernie Sanders, capitalized on unhappiness within the Democratic base, particularly in counties with large young populations like Washtenaw and Kent. While El-Sayed distances himself from the "Socialist" label, he supports extensive economic regulation and holds anti-Israel sentiments popular in Ann Arbor. McCotter notes that the Democratic establishment is now rallying around El-Sayed to preserve their Senate majority, hoping a "common enemy" in Donald Trump will bridge internal divides. Republican candidate Mike Rogers, a former Intelligence Committee chair, plans to counter El-Sayed by focusing on manufacturing, border security, and the risks of "Medicare for All" to seniors. McCotter warns that Trump's messaging on the "Iran war" and rising inflation remains a significant hurdle for Republican candidates in the general election. (6)Bob Zimmerman reports on the successful recovery of a SpaceX Starship near Christmas Island, which remained seaworthy for 24 days after a vertical splashdown in the Indian Ocean. This achievement, along with SpaceX's record-breaking launch frequency, signals a "renaissance to American ingenuity." Zimmerman notes that Elon Musk's political involvement was a defensive reaction to the Biden administration's regulatory pressure on his companies. In the Ukraineconflict, Ukrainian missiles successfully targeted a Russian factory producing Soyuz-2 rockets, aiming to cripple Russia's military satellite and drone communication capabilities. Regarding spaceport expansion, Zimmerman details SpaceX's potential new site in Louisiana, which offers hundreds of square miles for operations. He also critiques government-funded spaceports, like those in Australia or New Mexico, which often fail because they lack dedicated rocket companies as customers. Finally, research on mice aboard the International Space Station suggests that weightlessness does not fundamentally damage the heart's contracting mechanisms. (7)Two corrections applied, pending your confirmation: Hasan Piker (transcribed as "Hassan," segments 1 and 5 — the Twitch streamer spells it with one s) and Washtenaw County (transcribed as "Washington," segment 6 — Ann Arbor's county, which fits the context of young Democratic voters; flag me if the audio genuinely said Washington).

Hitha Herzog explains why July's retail sales miss does not signal a major slowdown in consumer spending. She points to the timing of Amazon's (AMZN) Prime Day and spending data from Block's (XYZ) Cash App and Afterpay, showing consumers remain active but are prioritizing essentials such as groceries, utilities and dining. She also discusses what retailers should consider as they prepare inventory strategies for the holiday shopping season.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day. Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/ About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Liz Peek analyzes the resilience of the U.S. economy, where strong consumer spending and business optimism persist despite high oil prices and stagnant job growth. While the Fed weighs interest rate hikes to curb inflation, a "wealth effect" from a robust stock market continues to buoy higher-end consumers. Politically, a "civil war" is brewing within the Democratic Party as far-left candidates aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) challenge the establishment in key swing states like Michigan and Wisconsin. These ideological divisions raise significant questions regarding the electability of progressive candidates in the upcoming general elections. (3)

Your 60-second money minute. Today's topic: Watching Consumer Spending Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The latest in business, financial, and market news and how it impacts your money, reported by CNBC's Peter Schacknow Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on Inside the Economy, we explore consumer spending, interest rates, world markets, and where oil stands today. Recent data shows consumer spending continues to be elevated while wage increases are slowing, with wage earners feeling the pressure. Households earning $125,000 or less are beginning to experience greater financial strain, but is this a temporary squeeze or could it be the start of a broader shift in consumer behavior? Homes currently on the market are taking longer to sell, and prices have come down somewhat. Would another increase in interest rates push prices down even further, and would that be a good thing for the overall health of the real estate market? Foreign holdings of U.S. financial assets have changed over time. In 2010, foreign investors held 33 percent of U.S. equities. What is that share in 2026? U.S. imports from Asia have risen significantly, but that growth is increasingly coming from countries other than China, while imports from China have declined to their lowest level in years. Which other countries are exporting more to the U.S., and what might the future hold for the trade relationship between the U.S. and China? Tune in to learn more. Key Takeaways: • 30-year Mortgage at 6.66% • S&P 500 Net Profit Margin expected to be 15.7% in Q2 2026 • U.S. GDP growth rate at 1.5% in Q1

This week on Inside the Economy, we explore consumer spending, interest rates, world markets, and where oil stands today. Recent data shows consumer spending continues to be elevated while wage increases are slowing, with wage earners feeling the pressure. Households earning $125,000 or less are beginning to experience greater financial strain, but is this a temporary squeeze or could it be the start of a broader shift in consumer behavior? Homes currently on the market are taking longer to sell, and prices have come down somewhat. Would another increase in interest rates push prices down even further, and would that be a good thing for the overall health of the real estate market? Foreign holdings of U.S. financial assets have changed over time. In 2010, foreign investors held 33 percent of U.S. equities. What is that share in 2026? U.S. imports from Asia have risen significantly, but that growth is increasingly coming from countries other than China, while imports from China have declined to their lowest level in years. Which other countries are exporting more to the U.S., and what might the future hold for the trade relationship between the U.S. and China? Tune in to learn more.   Key Takeaways: 30-year Mortgage at 6.66% S&P 500 Net Profit Margin expected to be 15.7% in Q2 2026 S. GDP growth rate at 1.5% in Q1

Explore the growing divide between top and bottom earners, the wealth effect driving consumer spending, inflation's staying power, and what AI may mean for jobs and the economy, with Moody's Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi. 00:00 Introduction 02:01 Divergence Between Economy and Markets 12:03 Consumer Spending Dynamics 18:04 Wealth Effect and Its Implications 23:56 Equity Valuations and Market Concerns 30:46 Globalization, Inflation, and Economic Outlook 35:55 Interest Rates and Economic Outlook 36:38 Consumer Spending and Recession Risks 39:43 Job Losses and AI Impact 44:01 Policymaking in the Age of AI 50:15 Trend or Fad?

Michael Strain of the American Enterprise Institute and colleague Matt Colyar join the Inside Economics crew to unpack a blockbuster week for the U.S. economy. A bizarre FOMC meeting, fresh GDP and inflation data, new readings on consumers, and financial market gyrations offered plenty to discuss. The group debates what it all means, where the economy is likely to head from here, and of course, play the numbers game. Guest: Michael Strain, Director of Economic Policy Studies, American Enterprise Institute Hosts: Mark Zandi – Chief Economist, Moody's Analytics, Cris deRitis – Deputy Chief Economist, Moody's Analytics, and Marisa DiNatale – Senior Director - Head of Global Forecasting, Moody's Analytics Follow Mark Zandi on 'X' and BlueSky @MarkZandi, Cris deRitis on LinkedIn, and Marisa DiNatale on LinkedIn Questions or Comments, please email us at InsideEconomics@moodys.com. We would love to hear from you. To stay informed and follow the insights of Moody's Analytics economists, visit Economic View. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Just Good Business Digest: July 2026 Edition Chapter 1: Beyond the pitch: how a global soccer tournament influences Canadian spending What happens to consumer spending when the world's biggest soccer tournament comes to town?

Liz Peek reports the US economy remains robust, driven by strong consumer spending in rural areas like Connecticutand Lancaster County. Peek highlights rising small business and consumer confidence despite increasing gasoline prices. Attention shifts to new Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh, who may end "dot plot" forecasting. Warsh aims to be more "taciturn," forcing markets to rely on incoming data rather than Fed projections. (1)1903

Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc open episode 308 with a check on Steve's number one prediction for 2026 — uncertainty reigns supreme — and it's holding up. The flat 10% global tariff is gone, replaced by a 10–12.5% range on nearly all U.S. imports, with steeper rates for Canada and Brazil. The new forced-labor justification behind the increases strikes Steve and Michael as ridiculous and unlikely to survive a court challenge. The retail numbers look better than the tariff logic. June retail sales rose 5.7% year over year, led by sporting goods (a World Cup bump) and electronics. Grocery managed just 1%. Steve walks through why: dollars flat, units falling, prices 33% above pre-COVID levels, food bank use climbing on both sides of the border. Albertsons is the clearest case — sales nearly flat, guidance cut, stock down 20% in a day. Then, recorded live in the pop-up studio at the CommerceNext Growth Show in New York, Ulta Beauty Chief Retail Officer Amiee Bayer-Thomas argues stores are queen. Thirty years into a career she calls a lattice rather than a ladder — seven roles at Ulta alone, including chief supply chain officer through 2020 — she now owns everything from site selection and store design to services, asset protection, eventing, and the omni guest journey. Stores, she says, are experiential hubs delivering "beautytainment" through 60,000 associates across 1,500 locations. The numbers: 47 million loyalty members, 95% of whom shopped in-store last year. A NielsenIQ study of Gen Alpha found the most AI-engaged shoppers still pick stores over apps, 57% versus 36%. Amiee's take on AI: it's an "and," not an "or." Technology can flag a replenishment; only an associate reads the confusion on a guest's face in the skincare aisle. Omni guests visit and spend three times more. She previews a Times Square flagship alongside outlet and small-format stores, plus an eventing calendar headed toward 140,000 events this year. In the news, Wayfair is expanding its store footprint. Shein is heading toward a Hong Kong listing at roughly half its 2022 valuation. Also on the radar: fuel costs rising again as back-to-school and holiday approach, and U.S. population growth of 0.25% turning retail into a fight over share. About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling author of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the NRF as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2026 and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

Election Years Often Bring Volatility, Not Lasting Market Changes Investor questions surrounding the upcoming midterm election continue to increase, particularly regarding how election results could impact financial markets. Historically, heightened market volatility leading into an election is completely normal. Volatility has typically increased as Election Day approaches, with October often proving to be the most volatile month of the election cycle. Once election uncertainty passes, however, market volatility has generally declined. More importantly, history shows that investors should focus less on election outcomes and more on what happens afterward. Since 1950, every 12-month period following a midterm election has produced a positive return for the S&P 500, with an average gain of approximately 16.6%. Even the weakest post-election year generated a positive return. Political control has also shown surprisingly little impact on long-term market performance. Looking back to 1933, the S&P 500 has produced double-digit average annual returns regardless of which political party controlled Washington. While election outcomes certainly influence policy discussions, long-term market returns have been driven primarily by corporate earnings rather than politics. For long-term investors, maintaining focus on business fundamentals remains far more important than attempting to predict election results. Tariffs, Consumer Spending, and Interest Rates Remain Key Economic Drivers Trade policy continues to evolve following the Supreme Court’s ruling against tariffs implemented under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). In response, the administration implemented a temporary 10% universal tariff through Section 122, which expired after 150 days. Going forward, tariffs can now be implemented under Section 301, allowing for more permanent and country-specific tariff rates. While individual tariff rates may vary by trading partner, the overall economic impact compared to the previous structure remains relatively modest. Investors should expect continued headlines surrounding tariffs, but these developments are largely part of an anticipated policy transition rather than a significant shift in trade strategy. Beyond trade policy, consumer health remains one of the most important indicators for the broader economy. One metric receiving close attention combines average mortgage rates with average gasoline prices. Historically, when mortgage rates exceed 6% and gasoline prices rise above $4 per gallon, the combined burden begins placing meaningful financial pressure on consumers. Sustained periods above this threshold have often coincided with mid-cycle economic slowdowns or, in some cases, recessions. Despite these headwinds, the U.S. consumer has remained remarkably resilient. However, prolonged pressure from elevated borrowing costs and energy prices could eventually begin to weaken consumer spending, making this an important trend to monitor. Interest rate expectations also continue to shift. Current market expectations suggest the Federal Reserve is unlikely to cut rates in the near term, with some investors now anticipating the possibility of additional rate hikes later this year. As leadership at the Federal Reserve evolves, markets will closely watch how policymakers respond to inflation, consumer strength, and broader economic conditions. Any unexpected shift toward higher interest rates would represent a meaningful change from the expectations many investors held entering the year and could influence both market sentiment and economic growth. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Volatility and Votes first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Headline: Main Street Resilience: Small Business Success in 2026 Guest: Gene Marks Gene Marks reports that American small businesses are thriving, with strong consumer spending and rising revenues. He notes that wages are outpacing inflation, contributing to historical levels of personal wealth. While some use AI for content, most businesses still avoid AI for core transactions. (11)LA

This morning, “Marketplace Morning Report” host Sabri Ben-Achour is joined by Gus Faucher, chief economist at The PNC Financial Services Group to take a look at how consumers responded to inflation during the second quarter of 2026, when the war in the Middle East was at its most disruptive. In short — they kept on spending. Plus, how changes with the United States-Mexico-Canada agreement could pose risks for the auto industry.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace Morning Report is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.Stories featured in this episode:Why the auto industry needs chipmakers

This morning, “Marketplace Morning Report” host Sabri Ben-Achour is joined by Gus Faucher, chief economist at The PNC Financial Services Group to take a look at how consumers responded to inflation during the second quarter of 2026, when the war in the Middle East was at its most disruptive. In short — they kept on spending. Plus, how changes with the United States-Mexico-Canada agreement could pose risks for the auto industry.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace Morning Report is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.Stories featured in this episode:Why the auto industry needs chipmakers

Your 60-second money minute. Today's topic: Consumer Spending Boosted By Wealthy Americans Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Americans seem undeterred by inflation hovering at 3.4%, as the personal consumption expenditures index rose 0.7% in May and is up 4.1% year over year. This could trigger raising interest rates, although host Gene Marks says a rate increase would be manageable. Gene also looks at Walmart Business uncovering the hidden costs of procurement, and what 60% of people dealing with AI-powered customer service bots say they do when faced with that situation. Listen to the podcast. Topics: 00:00 – Introduction 00:19 – Consumer Spending and Inflation 04:15 – Hidden Costs of Procurement 06:07 – Response to AI Customer Service 08:56 – Episode Wrap-up Additional Resources Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

Just Good Business Digest: June 2026 Edition Chapter 1:  Tracey McLennan of Edward Jones on Smart Financial Planning for Small Business Owners In this episode of the Just Good Business Podcast, Al sits down with Tracey McLennan, Director of the Client Consultation Group at Edward Jones, to talk about what small business owners should be doing after tax season ends. From connecting personal goals to business plans, to deciding when to reinvest vs. build reserves, to navigating succession in an aging workforce — Tracey shares practical strategies every business owner can use.

This week on Inside the Economy, we dive into the shifting dynamics of consumer spending, housing, capital markets, and global trade. Data shows that retail and gasoline spending have surged to become major drivers of year-over-year spending growth, pushing total monthly growth toward the 6% mark in early 2026 alongside steady services spending. Where would our economic growth stand without these two volatile categories? Meanwhile, this broader economic resilience is spilling into the housing market, where falling mortgage rates and moderating prices have propelled existing home sales to their fastest pace of the year. This raises a critical question for hopeful buyers and investors alike: is this renewed demand about to send median home prices soaring out of reach once again, or can the market maintain its delicate balance? On the capital markets front, net U.S. equity issuance is projected to experience a notable surge throughout the remainder of the year, rising at its fastest pace since at least 1999. While headline-grabbing mega-IPOs like SpaceX are fueling this supply shock, what other massive public debuts are waiting in the wings to reshape investor portfolios? Finally, a historic milestone has been reached in the energy sector, where solar power officially surpassed coal in the U.S. electricity generation mix for the very first time. This monumental shift leaves energy investors with one pressing question: is this the permanent twilight of coal's dominance, or could seasonal grid demands trigger a short-term comeback? Tune in to learn more. Key Takeaways: • Unemployment remains at 4.3% • Crude Oil dipped below $73.79 per barrel • CPI Core at 2.9% (YoY)

This week on Inside the Economy, we dive into the shifting dynamics of consumer spending, housing, capital markets, and global trade. Data shows that retail and gasoline spending have surged to become major drivers of year-over-year spending growth, pushing total monthly growth toward the 6% mark in early 2026 alongside steady services spending. Where would our economic growth stand without these two volatile categories? Meanwhile, this broader economic resilience is spilling into the housing market, where falling mortgage rates and moderating prices have propelled existing home sales to their fastest pace of the year. This raises a critical question for hopeful buyers and investors alike: is this renewed demand about to send median home prices soaring out of reach once again, or can the market maintain its delicate balance? On the capital markets front, net U.S. equity issuance is projected to experience a notable surge throughout the remainder of the year, rising at its fastest pace since at least 1999. While headline-grabbing mega-IPOs like SpaceX are fueling this supply shock, what other massive public debuts are waiting in the wings to reshape investor portfolios? Finally, a historic milestone has been reached in the energy sector, where solar power officially surpassed coal in the U.S. electricity generation mix for the very first time. This monumental shift leaves energy investors with one pressing question: is this the permanent twilight of coal's dominance, or could seasonal grid demands trigger a short-term comeback? Tune in to learn more.   Key Takeaways: Unemployment remains at 4.3% Crude Oil dipped below $73.79 per barrel CPI Core at 2.9% (YoY)

The Resilient US Consumer and AI Infrastructure. Guest: Elizabeth Peek. Despite concerns over tariffs and wars, consumer spending remains robust, fueled by record stock market levels and rising low-end wages. Peek argues against AI alarmism, noting that massive investments in AI infrastructure are creating a surge in blue-collar job demand for skilled trades like welding and construction. 21920

Economic Resilience in D.C. and Lancaster County. Guest: Jim McTague. A drop in gasoline prices has boosted consumer spending at retail stores and supermarkets. While D.C. remains popular with tourists, employers are struggling to find workers with specialized technical skills. Meanwhile, the housing market remains robust at the high end despite higher interest rates. 5

Jim McTague. Jim McTague analyzes Lancaster County's economy, noting a surge in tourism at local amusement parks. He highlights how falling gasoline prices have increased disposable income, leading to more aggressive consumer spending at retailers.1942 LANCASTER

Higher gasoline and diesel prices cost Americans an additional $44.8 billion during the Iran conflict, according to a New York Times analysis. The report found consumers took more bus rides, spent less on essentials and faced higher prices on everyday goods as fuel costs climbed. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Damon Haley Co‑founder of Glow and Flow Beauty, discussing his transition from entertainment and sports marketing into the beauty-supply industry, his mission to elevate service for Black and Brown communities, and the franchising model he is rolling out nationwide. Hosted by Rushion McDonald on Money Making Conversations Masterclass, the conversation highlights Haley’s business philosophy, community-driven approach, and long-term vision to create ownership opportunities through franchising.

Fast-food prices have climbed sharply in recent years, and where you live can make a major difference in how much you spend. A new WalletHub report identifies the states that devote the highest and lowest percentage of their income to fast food purchases. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 304 reunites The Analysts — Remarkable Retail's celebrated panel of Forrester's Sucharita Kodali, Guggenheim's Simeon Siegel, and GlobalData's Neil Saunders — to take stock of retail coming out of earnings season. Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc open on the paradox of 2026: results are largely strong, sentiment is dismal. Simeon argues the link between the two is "tenuous at best" — people talk one way and spend another. Neil has the data: roughly 60% of shoppers who expect the economy to worsen still spent more than a year ago, propped up by spring tax refunds that won't repeat. Then the K-shaped economy. Higher-income households drive most of the real volume growth; middle-income shoppers prop up value growth mainly because prices are higher. Sucharita revisits "peak ambiguity" and the "vibe session," noting record sales barely outrun stubborn inflation. The panel unpacks the standouts — Ross's 17% comp, Victoria's Secret up 15% — and debates GLP-1's role in surging apparel and beauty: wardrobe replacement, new confidence, trading up to statement pieces. On turnarounds, Simeon lands the episode's sharpest thesis: brands "ubiquitize" and peak around $3–4 billion in the US. Lululemon got too big, over-distributed, and over-earning — so the bad sales have to "walk out the door" before the brand can re-elevate, the same lens that frames Nike's long reset. He and Sucharita draw the Gap parallel ahead of Simeon's on-stage interview with Mickey Drexler, noting Old Navy now dwarfs Gap itself. Neil makes the case for Macy's under Tony Spring — basics fixed first, satisfaction and visitation improving — while Steve stays skeptical of the pace. Next, the DTC reckoning. Simeon reframes his old "DTC is not all it's cracked up to be" call as "anti-anti-wholesale": outside high-margin luxury, nearly every brand needs a healthy wholesale business — and stores remain the best channel because "the customer is your employee." Sucharita pushes back on the AI narrative, reminding everyone it's far more than generative hype, as the panel digs into why scaled players — Amazon, Walmart, Costco, off-price — keep compounding through retail media, marketplaces, and flywheel economics. It closes on the wealth effect, trillion-dollar market caps, and whether a market correction could rattle high-end spending — then rapid-fire hot takes: brands to watch (Cozey, Ross Stores, Goyard) and what's on each analyst's radar, from inflation and surging oil prices to a quiet "middle of the doughnut" news lull and an election year's hunt for stability. Join us at the CommerceNext Growth Show in New York June 23rd and 24th with this exclusive discount code for 10% off general admission tickets and FREE retail tickets: Your code is "REMARKABLE" . See you in the Big Apple! About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling author of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the NRF as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025 and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

China's consumer spending and investment have fallen to levels unseen since the pandemic but what does that mean for their economy going forward? Also Donald Trump shares more details on that Iran-US deal at the G7. And we'll be finding out why tourism is declining in the Caribbean island of Cuba. Presenter Sarah Rogers Producer: Barbara George and Aleeza Siddiq

The President elbowed out Jerome Powell and brought in Kevin Warsh. His first meeting of the Open Market Committee is this week. A look at what kind of news will happen in the next 24 hours from the Chief Economist at US Bank, Beth Ann Bovino on The WCCO Morning News.

On Episode 304 of the Remarkable Retail podcast, co-hosts Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc dig into a busy earnings season, the global forces reshaping retail, and the competitive divides separating winners from also-rans. They open with the department store sector, which Steve frames as "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly." Macy's shows incremental progress and Bloomingdale's posts double-digit growth, but Kohl's stays stuck and JCPenney's latest numbers underscore the structural problems dogging traditional operators. The throughline: shifting market share, real estate decisions, and changing consumer behavior keep narrowing the path forward for the format, and the gap between the sector's healthier players and its laggards continues to widen. From there, the hosts turn to retail's brighter turnaround stories. Victoria's Secret keeps building momentum with stronger comps and improved profitability, while Gap Inc. shows how disciplined brand management and sharper product focus can revive a business. They also weigh the intensifying competition among athleisure brands as the category's leaders pull further ahead and the middle of the pack scrambles to keep up. Value retailing is the episode's recurring theme. TJX, Ross Stores, Burlington, and Five Below all posted strong results, reinforcing the durable consumer shift toward value and the treasure hunt. Steve and Michael explore why off-price keeps outperforming while dollar stores wrestle with a tougher customer—and they spotlight Costco, where fuel, membership economics, and traffic-driving loss leaders keep the warehouse club model ahead of much of the sector. Drawing on his recent travels through Portugal and Spain, Steve shares observations on European retail: the distinct dynamics of specialty players, the enduring pull of department stores like El Corte Inglés, and one of the world's most remarkable retail experiences, Livraria Lello in Porto, a bookstore so beloved that shoppers pay admission and book a timeslot just to get in. The episode closes with Walmart's fast-expanding same-day delivery, the rise of faster fulfillment across retail, Saks Global's exit from bankruptcy, and the geopolitical risks looming over supply chains and consumer spending. Michael also previews his visit to T&T Supermarket's first California store—a reminder of how much innovation is still alive in modern grocery. It's a wide-ranging look at a sector where the winners are pulling away and the stragglers are running out of time. Join us at the CommerceNext Growth Show in New York June 23rd and 24th with this exclusive discount code for 10% off general admission tickets and FREE retail tickets: Your code is "REMARKABLE" . See you in the Big Apple! About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling author of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the NRF as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025 and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

Three economists. Three opinions. The Inside Economics team worked through a panoply of fresh releases, covering GDP, spending, income, new-home sales, durable goods orders, and inflation, to piece together the true state of the economy. Three tricky statistics tested the team in the stats game before a three-part listener question closed things out. Stay tuned for Cris' paper mentioned in the episode here Questions or Comments, please email us at InsideEconomics@moodys.com. We would love to hear from you. To stay informed and follow the insights of Moody's Analytics economists, visit Economic View. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC Business News Update with Jessica Ettinger - market numbers and news featuring CNBC expert analysis and sound from top business names. Visit https://www.cnbc.com/ for more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Segment 1: Jay McCracken, Executive Director, Ottawa Chamber of Commerce, tells John how a small town like Ottawa stays competitive, their many great partnerships, how tourism is an important part of the local economy, the business incubator program that will bolster downtown, and the incredible food and beverage scene in Ottawa. Segment 2: Mark Hamrick, Washington Bureau […]

In episode 303 of Remarkable Retail, Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc deliver a sharp, fast-moving episode built around a single conviction from one of retail's most influential retailers: the future is people-led and tech-enabled. Chris Nicholas, former President & CEO of Sam's Club and now President & CEO of Walmart International — a global operation spanning 18 countries, 5,700 stores, and over 500,000 employees shares how humanity and technology are intertwined to drive growth. In this encore interview, Chris makes the case that retail innovation isn't about replacing people with technology. It's about using AI and digital tools to strip out friction, empower associates, and build better member experiences. Technology serves the human, not the other way around. Chris unpacks Sam's Club's nearly $90 billion membership-driven model and explains why the warehouse club sector keeps gaining momentum worldwide. He goes deep on the "club of the future" strategy — including the closely watched Grapevine, Texas location with computer vision-powered exits, Scan & Go checkout, AI-enabled shopping, and a radically redesigned store built around convenience, inspiration, and engagement. His core belief: consumers everywhere want the same things — value, convenience, innovation, and experiences that genuinely improve their lives. Before the interview, the hosts break down a blockbuster earnings week. Walmart posts another massive quarter, adding a staggering $18 billion in quarterly revenue while investing aggressively in price to hold share against inflation. Target delivers one of its strongest quarters in years, a sign its turnaround may finally be gaining traction. TJX proves resilient yet again as off-price rides the consumer "stampede to value." Home Depot and Lowe's, meanwhile, keep struggling in a sluggish housing and renovation market as higher rates squeeze big-ticket spending. The episode closes with Shein's surprising acquisition of Everlane — which Steve calls "where irony goes to die," given Everlane's brand built on radical transparency. Steve and Michael also dig into rising bond yields and the broader implications of AI legislation and the growing political clout of major technology investors like Andreessen Horowitz. Join us at the CommerceNext Growth Show in New York June 23rd and 24th with this exclusive discount code for 10% off general admission tickets and FREE retail tickets: Your code is "REMARKABLE" . See you in the Big Apple! About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling author of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the NRF as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025 and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

Markets finally pulled back after a relentless momentum-driven rally, but history suggests parabolic advances rarely end quietly. Lance Roberts & Tom Thornton break down the growing signs of a speculative bubble forming beneath the surface of the market, from DeMark Exhaustion Sell Signals and narrow market breadth to surging semiconductor inflows, Korean market speculation, and rising energy-driven inflation risks. We examine why tech leadership is becoming dangerously concentrated, how crude oil and gasoline prices could reignite CPI pressures, and why the Fed may be effectively finished with rate cuts. We also discuss the "immediate gratification economy," emerging market weakness, fertilizer and commodity pressures, and the growing disconnect between market optimism and economic reality. Plus, we analyze why investors may want to diversify, take profits while they still can, and rethink the difference between long-term investing and speculative casino behavior. NOTE: This interview was pre-recorded on 5/7/26. 00:00 - Intro 1:20 - Market Correction, as Predicted 4:00 - Parabolic Spikes Have Happened Before 5:53 - There's a Bubble Brewing - Bullish Sentiment (slide) 8:53 - DeMark Exhaustion Sell Signals (slide) - what they are 10:54 - What the Signals are Saying (13's) 11:40 - Nasdaq 100 w DeMark Exhaustion Sell Signals 12:25 - Korean Kospi Index - Most Important in the World, next to U.S. 13:38 - GS Data Center & Memory Baskets (slide) 15:25 - SMH Semi's & EWY Korea ETF Inflows (slide) 18:35 - Memory Chip Price Gouge 20:56 - EWY Korean ETF 21:47 - QQQ vs SPX and SMH vs SPX Ratios (slide) 23:08 - Narrow Market Breadth 24:26 - Markets Regurgitate Same News, over and over 25:43 - Paul Tudor Jones: "United States has never been more dependent on the stock market than ever before." 26:41 - XLK Tech vs SPX & RSP Equal Weight vs SPX ratios (slide) 29:13 - Crude Traders are "in a bunker" on fears of Crude Oil draws 30:20 - Crude Oil Prices, Gasoline Prices, and CPI 33:33 - The Fed is Done 34:28 - What if...it's all about timing 36:15 - Are Emerging Markets Losing Their Luster? 38:26 - High Energy Prices' Impact on Consumer Spending into Foreign Markets 38:51 - Living in the Immediate Gratification Economy 39:33 - The Fertilizer Issue 40:43 - Gasoline Prices and the Lag-effect on CPI 42:11 - The Call to Take Profits While You Can 42:56 - Catalyst List: Crude, Bonds, Rates - This is a call to diversify 44:52 - Warren Buffett - Church vs Casino Investing (Why we sold our Berkshire stock) Hosted by RIA Advisors Chief Investment Strategist, Lance Roberts, CIO, w Senior Investment Advisor, Jonathan Penn, CFP Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Do you enjoy our content? Rate us on Google: https://bit.ly/4b9JtEo ------- Watch Today's Full Video on our YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/live/s5pdp2zHltg ------- * REGISTER for our next Dynamic Learning Series presentation, "A SimpleVisor Tutorial," Thursday, June 4, 2025 at Noon: https://streamyard.com/watch/MwairsimgmnS -------- Download Lance's Latest e-book, "Laws of Money & Wealth:"https://realinvestmentadvice.com/ria-e-guide-library/ -------- SUBSCRIBE to The Real Investment Show here: http://www.youtube.com/c/TheRealInvestmentShow -------- Visit our Site: https://www.realinvestmentadvice.com Contact Us: 1-855-RIA-PLAN -------- Subscribe to SimpleVisor: https://www.simplevisor.com/register-new -------- Connect with us on social: https://twitter.com/RealInvAdvice https://twitter.com/LanceRoberts https://www.facebook.com/RealInvestmentAdvice/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/realinvestmentadvice/ #StockMarket #MarketBubble #Nasdaq #Investing #FederalReserve

In Episode 302 of Remarkable Retail, Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc sit down with Eric Sadi, Co-President, North America at Simon Property Group, for a long-overdue conversation on what the modern mall has actually become—and why the obituaries keep aging badly. Eric walks through Simon's reimagination strategy: replacing tired anchor boxes with mixed-use destinations that braid together dining, entertainment, fitness, hospitality, and even residential living. He explains why occupancy at the top of the portfolio sits above 96%, why rents and tenant sales keep climbing, and why human connection, discovery, and community still drive the consumer behaviour the algorithms can't replicate. The "third place" isn't a slogan—it's a deliberate redesign of what a shopping centre is for. The conversation also takes on the most misunderstood narrative in retail: why Walmart, Target, Apple, and a new generation of experiential brands keep pouring billions into stores when so much of the growth lives online. The short answer? Stores aren't just sales channels anymore. They're infrastructure, media, and community. The "stores are dying" story is one of the laziest media frames in the business, and Steve and Michael take it apart. Before the interview, the hosts unpack a packed news week: renewed inflation worries as fuel, transportation, and food costs climb again, and what that means for retailer margins; standout earnings from some of the most remarkable performers in the business, including Simon's continued strength, On Running's expanding margins and rising cultural heat, and The RealReal's case that luxury resale is one of the fastest-growing corners of fashion. They also weigh in on GameStop's bid for eBay—and eBay's flat rejection—a strong candidate for dumbest story of the year. Plus Amazon's latest AI moves and what they signal about where the platform wars are headed. The episode closes with Steve wondering whether rising fuel costs will drive more online sales and Michael's specialty grocery discoveries in Los Angeles: Laurel Supply, Gonzalez Northgate Market, and the much-anticipated arrival of T&T. Join us at the CommerceNext Growth Show in New York June 23rd and 24th with this exclusive discount code for 10% off general admission tickets and FREE retail tickets: Your code is "REMARKABLE" . See you in the Big Apple! About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling author of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the NRF as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025 and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

Your 60-second money minute. Today's topic: Gas & Consumer Spending Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

15/16: Gene Marks observes steady business for construction and safety industries across the US. He notes that raw material costs have surged significantly. Despite inflation, consumer spending remains vigorous, with major retailers like Amazon reporting their strongest retail growth since the pandemic.1900

PREVIEW for Later Today: Corporate Leaders Report Robust Consumer Spending. Guest: Gene Marks. CEOs from major companies like Amazon report a 15% retail increase, signaling strong consumer confidence. Marks notes that while surveys vary, actual spending data from big-box retailers remains the primary economic indicator.1910 FIFTH AVENUE

The Remarkable Retail Podcast hits a major milestone with its 300th episode—and Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc mark the occasion with a conversation they've been looking forward to: a rare, candid sit-down with Pete Nordstrom, one of the most respected executives in modern retail. As Nordstrom celebrates its 125th anniversary, Pete offers an inside look at what has allowed the business to survive—and by most measures, lead—through dramatic shifts in consumer behavior, technology disruption, and industry consolidation. He traces his own journey from working the stockroom as a teenager to running one of North America's most iconic retailers, and reflects on the culture, customer obsession, and early omnichannel bets that continue to define the company. The conversation covers the future of department stores, the role of physical retail, Nordstrom Rack's continued expansion, the evolution of luxury partnerships, and hard-won lessons from the Canadian market. Before the interview, Steve and Michael dig into the week's biggest retail and macroeconomic stories. Rising oil prices, stubborn inflation, weakening consumer confidence, and shifting savings rates all raise questions about the health of the North American consumer—and what it means for retailers heading into the back half of the year. From there, the duo breaks down Amazon's latest earnings, where cloud, advertising, grocery, and AI-powered shopping tools continue to drive outsized growth. They examine early signs of operational momentum at Starbucks and debate whether Wayfair can convert market-share gains into something that actually looks like sustainable profitability. In the back half, Steve and Michael turn to TikTok Shops' explosive growth, the rising momentum of European resale platform Vinted, and the evolving economics of hybrid retail modell, including Bed Bath & Beyond's latest attempt at reinvention. Closing out the show, both hosts share what's on their radar: U.S. consumer savings trends, retail spending pressure, and the looming review of the North American trade agreement and what it could mean for retailers, brands, and cross-border commerce. Join us at the CommerceNext Growth Show in New York June 23rd and 24th with this exclusive discount code for 10% off general admission tickets and FREE retail tickets: Your code is "REMARKABLE" . See you in the Big Apple! About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling author of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the NRF as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025 and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

Gene Marks analyzes the resilient American economy, noting strong manufacturing expansion and banking stability despite global turmoil, while highlighting sustained consumer spending and the positive impact of 2025 tax refunds on small businesses. (13)1947 C-47

The Resilience of the American Consumer Guest: Elizabeth Peak Elizabeth Peak and John Batchelor discuss the robust state of the US economy. Despite global conflict, consumer spending remains high, and the Trump agenda of deregulation and tariffs continues to foster domestic growth.1839 RHINELAND

Target is throwing in the towel on its previous losing strategy. Like many businesses, it tried to raise prices only to find its customers going elsewhere, largely to Walmart. Now Target is slashing its prices including on the towel it just threw in. The retail giant simply has no other choice given the sudden change in consumer behavior we're seeing across the economic landscape.   Eurodollar University's Money & Macro AnalysisTarget cuts prices on 3,000 items as stubborn inflation keeps US consumers on edgehttps://www.reuters.com/business/target-slashes-prices-more-than-3000-products-2026-03-11/Fewer Americans Plan to Travel After Surging Fuel Costs Hit Budgetshttps://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-04-02/fuel-price-rise-on-iran-war-has-americans-putting-vacations-on-holdNumerator Consumers React to Rising Gas Priceshttps://www.numerator.com/resources/blog/consumers-react-rising-gas-prices/FRBNY SURVEY OF CONSUMER EXPECTATIONShttps://www.newyorkfed.org/microeconomics/sce#/https://www.eurodollar.universityTwitter: https://twitter.com/JeffSnider_EDU

Our U.S. Thematic and Equity Strategist Michelle Weaver breaks down the results of a new survey on U.S. consumer spending and confidence.Read more insights from Morgan Stanley.----- Transcript -----Welcome to Thoughts on the Market. I'm Michelle Weaver, Morgan Stanley's U.S. Thematic and Equity Strategist. Today, we're bringing you an update on the U.S. consumer as we try and understand the outlook for the economy.It's Thursday, April 9, at 10 AM in New York.You've probably noticed shopping these days feels like a mixed bag. You spend money on your everyday staples like groceries, personal care or clothes. But you might be second-guessing those big ticket items like a new piece of furniture or a new TV. And you're not alone. Our newest AlphaWise survey of U.S. consumers reveals a pretty mixed signal. On the surface, things look solid. Consumers are still spending. We've seen that borne out in some of the recent economic data. And our survey work reveals around 34 percent expect to spend more next month, compared to just 15 percent who expect to spend less. That leaves us with a net spending outlook of +18 percent, which is actually above the long-term average. But when we start to dig in and look beneath the surface, the story shifts. Confidence is deteriorating. Nearly half of consumers expect the economy to get worse over the next six months, while only 32 percent expect an improvement. This results in a net outlook of -17 percent, a meaningful drop from what we saw last month. So how do we reconcile that? That spending with that deterioration in confidence. It's really a balance of timelines. Consumers are spending today, but they're increasingly worried about tomorrow. And these worries are grounded in very real concerns. Inflation remains the dominant issue, with 57 percent of consumers citing rising prices as a key concern – reversing what had been a fairly short-lived improvement on consumers' view on prices. At the same time, of course, with the tensions in the Middle East, geopolitical concerns are increasing quickly. They've jumped to 33 percent from 22 percent just last month. And concerns around the U.S. political environment remain elevated at 43 percent. When you combine all these pressures, it's not surprising that consumers are becoming more cautious in how they plan to spend. We're also seeing that caution show up in the mix of expenditures. In the near term, consumers are still increasing spending across most categories – especially the essentials like groceries, gasoline, and household items. But when we look over a longer horizon, the outlook becomes more selective. Discretionary categories are weakening. Apparel spending expectations have dropped to -16 percent, domestic travel to -11 percent, and international travel to -14 percent. That shift – from discretionary to essentials – is something we tend to see when consumers are bracing for a more uncertain environment. Now, one factor that's supporting the near-term – a brighter spot here – is tax season. This year, 46 percent of consumers expect to receive a larger tax refund compared to last year. And what's interesting about that is where people are going to put the money. About half of consumers plan to save at least a portion of the refund. About a third plan to pay down debt. And only around 30 percent intend to spend it on everyday purchases. So even when people receive a cash boost, the instinct isn't to spend freely. It's to shore up finances. Putting it all together, the picture of the U.S. consumer today is one of resilience but also rising caution. Spending is holding up in the near term, supported by income and tax refunds. But confidence is weakening, savings behavior is increasing, and discretionary demand is softening. These divergent trends are important. We'll continue to watch them closely and bring you updates.Thanks for listening. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a review wherever you listen and share Thoughts on the Market with a friend or colleague today.

At least half of the U.S. population will be hit by a powerful winter storm this weekend - we'll tell you how Oklahoma, and other states, are preparing. Plus, a look at how President Trump is using the military overseas as well inside the U.S. during his second term. Plus, a look at consumer spending in the U.S. and how sustainable it is at present levels. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy