Political partisanship has become so persistent in sentiment surveys that some economists say it’s getting harder to accurately measure moods of consumers.

Retailers actually have started to offer deals to consumers earlier in the year, but the day still remains popular. 

It could be a sign that importers already have the goods they need. It could also be a sign that the economy will dip into a “freight recession.”

Part of the reason? U.S. security concerns.

Awaiting new data on consumer sentiment and retail sales this week, analysts say people seem to be concerned about job availability, high prices, and their ability to keep up with monthly bills.

The National Retail Federation predicts that this holiday season, retailers will hire fewer than 365,000 workers — the lowest number in 15 years.

The idea has a mixed record.

With heat and electricity bills on the rise, many households are falling behind on payments, according to a new analysis by progressive nonprofits Century Foundation and Protect Borrowers.

Clara Mattei, president of the Forum for Real Economic Emancipation, discusses austerity measures, exploitation, and more.

Many consumers will have to pare down or spend more on gifts this year, just to match what they gave last year.