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Eurodollar University

Walmart Just Warned the US Economy is COLLAPSING

Feb 24, 2025
Steve Van Metre, an economic expert, shares his insights on alarming trends in consumer behavior and the U.S. economy. He highlights Walmart's pivot to house brands due to financial strain, suggesting a deeper crisis. The conversation delves into the risks of stagflation as rising costs outstrip wage growth, revealing a disconnect between consumer spending and economic recovery narratives. Additionally, rising unemployment and global economic challenges exacerbate fears, prompting consumers to cut back on major expenses.
20:18

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Walmart's warning reflects a significant shift in consumer behavior, signaling economic strain and a decline in spending power across demographics.
  • The sharp decline in consumer confidence, coupled with falling PMIs, indicates a potential prolonged economic stagnation driven by rising living costs and job market concerns.

Deep dives

Walmart's Warning and Economic Signals

Walmart has indicated concerns regarding shifting consumer behavior and economic conditions, signaling weakness in its business for the first time in years. The company's chief financial officer highlighted uncertainties related to consumer spending, suggesting a broader trend affecting economic momentum. This aligns with other indicators, such as S&P Global's Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for the services sector, which fell below 50, indicating a downturn in economic activity. Overall, these developments suggest that the artificial high experienced in the economy during the previous year may have come to an end, leaving 2025's economic landscape exposed to significant challenges.

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