Christmas Economic Insights

This chapter explores the macroeconomic and microeconomic impacts of Christmas spending in the United States, highlighting an estimated $200 billion in planned expenditures. It examines consumer debt related to holiday expenses and the effectiveness of gift-giving, questioning the true value and emotional significance behind traditional exchanges. Additionally, it discusses cultural practices surrounding financial bonuses and the complexities of gifts, such as the preference for cash and the emotional dynamics in romantic gift-giving.