Consumers Worry About Inflation Despite Record Holiday Spending
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Consumers are unhappy despite a strong economy, with spending resilient. Cyber Monday hit a record $12.4B in sales.
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Inflation and high prices are top concerns. Prices remain much higher than pre-pandemic, especially for food, energy, cars.
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Gas prices have fallen but consumers expect increases again. Overall uncertainty about economy is very high.
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Consumers feel there's no "return to normal" after pandemic disruption and social changes.
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Housing costs have soared, straining budgets. Interest rates also hold back spending on cars, appliances.