Marketplace All-in-One Getting spendy to get ahead of tariffs
Aug 18, 2025
Consumer spending on big-ticket items like cars and furniture is surprising given a softening job market. Retailers are thriving despite consumer hesitance towards higher prices. Homebuilder confidence is low due to high mortgage rates and tariffs. The startup scene faces funding challenges as government support dwindles, particularly impacting women-founded businesses. Meanwhile, tariffs are shaping investment in biotech and deep tech, prompting a focus on innovative solutions for environmental issues like microplastics.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Big-Ticket Buying Ahead Of Tariffs
- Consumers are buying more big-ticket items like cars and furniture despite a softening labor market.
- Some buyers appear to be accelerating purchases to avoid expected tariff-driven price increases.
Local Furniture Store Sees A Surge
- Brenner's Furniture reports roughly 20% month-over-month sales growth and higher foot traffic.
- General Manager Lance Miles and staff notice a shift toward lower-priced sofas and increased store activity.
Builders Stalled By Rates And Tariff Worry
- High mortgage rates and tariff uncertainty have depressed homebuilder confidence and homebuying demand.
- Falling mortgage rates could ease sentiment, but many homeowners remain locked into low existing mortgages.