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Consumer spending increases again. How long will that last?

Oct 29, 2018
U.S. consumer spending rose for a 7th straight month in September, according the the Commerce Department. Economists expect that trend to continue despite slow wage growth.  
The billions of dollars spent on holiday shopping each year leaves out one big piece of the gift-giving puzzle.
Sean Gallup/Getty Images
The billions of dollars spent on holiday shopping each year leaves out one big piece of the gift-giving puzzle.
Sean Gallup/Getty Images

Billionaire donations are driving midterm spending

Oct 23, 2018
High net worth giving is making this midterm campaign one of the most expensive ever.
Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg gestures to the crowd as he walks on stage to deliver remarks on the third day of the Democratic National Convention at the Wells Fargo Center, July 27, 2016 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 
Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Billionaire donations are driving midterm spending

Oct 23, 2018
High net worth giving is making this midterm campaign one of the most expensive ever.
Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg gestures to the crowd as he walks on stage to deliver remarks on the third day of the Democratic National Convention at the Wells Fargo Center, July 27, 2016 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 
Joe Raedle/Getty Images

China's latest buzz term could worry businesses

Oct 19, 2018
"Consumption downgrade" is a popular phrase as Chinese consumers curb spending.
The success of firms selling instant noodles and pickled mustard greens have fueled a perception among Chinese citizens that the country is on a “consumption downgrade.”
Jennifer Pak/Marketplace

China's latest buzz term could worry businesses

Oct 19, 2018
"Consumption downgrade" is a popular phrase as Chinese consumers curb spending.
The success of firms selling instant noodles and pickled mustard greens have fueled a perception among Chinese citizens that the country is on a “consumption downgrade.”
Jennifer Pak/Marketplace

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It's use-it-or-lose-it season in Washington

Sep 18, 2018
Every year at this time, federal agencies scramble to spend down their budgets.
It's September, spendathon time in Washington, D.C.
NICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images

Students want upscale dorm accommodations; retailers take note

Aug 24, 2018
Gone are the days when a faded comforter from childhood was suitable for students.
An independent survey from consulting firm Deloitte estimates parents will spend $25.5 billion on back-to-college purchases in 2018. Above, a residential hall at the University of Central Florida.
Renata Sago/Marketplace

Consumer spending lags confidence

Mar 27, 2018
Americans say they’re optimistic about the economy. But stores aren’t seeing it in sales numbers, yet. Click the audio player above to hear the full story.