Category: Consumer Behavior

Powell Says Strong Economic Data ‘Could Warrant’ Higher Rates

The Federal Reserve may need to do more if growth remains hot or if the labor market stops cooling, Jerome H. Powell said in a speech.
China’s Economy Grew More Than Expected Over the Summer

The government spent heavily on infrastructure, state-owned banks financed a boom in factory construction and consumers spent more, but the housing sector stumbled.
Those Doritos Too Expensive? More Stores Offer Their Own Alternatives.

Retailers are expanding their own private-label food and beverage offerings, attracting customers looking for less expensive options.
In China Businesses Cut Prices as Consumers Spend Less

Beijing hopes spending can spur growth, which has been dragged down by slowing real estate sales and exports. But shoppers are gravitating to discounts.
Despite the economy’s resilience, the outlook is hard to gauge.

With chaos lurking in Washington, interest rates surging and student loan payments resuming, the recovery faces new challenges.
The Honey Pot: What’s Behind the Rise of the New Feminine Care Brand

Brands selling feminine care products have dropped the euphemisms to sell to younger consumers. But are they still capitalizing on old stigmas?
Inflation Measure Favored by the Fed Cooled in August

The Personal Consumption Expenditures Index climbed more slowly, after cutting out food and fuel prices for a sense of the underlying trend.
What to Watch at the Fed’s September Meeting

The Federal Reserve is unlikely to declare victory in its war on inflation. But investors will watch for any hint that rate increases might be over.
What to Watch at the Fed’s September Meeting

The Federal Reserve is unlikely to declare victory in its war on inflation. But investors will watch for any hint that rate increases might be over.
Some Businesses Make ‘Woke Free’ a Selling Point

A number of companies — from clothing to pet care — are trying to appeal to customers who think corporate America is pushing a liberal agenda.
China’s Import Curbs on Cosmetics Face Pushback in Europe

Cosmetics sales in China are soaring, but a group of exporting nations led by France are pushing Beijing to lift restrictions they say are blocking them unfairly.
Will Restart of Student Loan Payments Be the Last Straw for Consumers?

Americans have continued spending despite dwindling savings and inflation. But retailers worry resuming loan payments could push some over the edge.