What Black Friday numbers say about the US consumer
Dec 6, 2024
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Retail stocks are on the rise as the holiday shopping season approaches. Insights reveal a surprising boost in consumer spending during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, especially in apparel and footwear. There's a renewed buzz in mall traffic, while department stores continue to face challenges. The conversation also touches on the resilience of low-income consumers and how companies are adapting to meet their needs. Finally, a spirited discussion about the upcoming college football bowl season adds a fun twist to the consumer landscape!
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Quick takeaways
The recent rally in US retail stocks indicates strong corporate earnings and favorable macroeconomic conditions boosting consumer sentiment for the holiday season.
Early indicators from Black Friday reveal surprising growth in consumer spending, especially in apparel and footwear, signaling a rebound in confidence.
Deep dives
Retail Performance Drivers
Several factors have contributed to the recent rally in retail stocks, including strong corporate earnings and favorable macroeconomic conditions. Companies have reported better-than-expected third-quarter results, with improved top-line performance and healthy margins. Additionally, the economy is benefiting from lower gas prices and encouraging job data, enhancing consumer sentiment as the holiday season approaches. As we move past the election period, retailers have noted a promising start to the fourth quarter, suggesting positive trends in consumer spending.
Consumer Spending Insights
The holiday shopping season is critically important for retailers, with events like Black Friday contributing significantly to annual sales. Black Friday week can account for up to six percent of annual sales for many retailers, emphasizing its impact on overall performance. Early indicators from this year's Black Friday showed strong growth both online and in brick-and-mortar stores, surprising many observers. This suggests a rebound in consumer confidence and spending habits, particularly for apparel and footwear, while department stores have lagged behind in performance.
US retail stocks have been rallying recently. Will the holiday shopping season give investors a new reason to buy? Scott Feiler, consumer sector specialist with Goldman Sachs Global Banking & Markets, discusses with Chris Hussey.