Retail spending on Black Friday increased by 4.1% compared to the previous year, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse, signaling that consumers remained active despite broader economic uncertainty. The rise suggests that worries over inflation, trade policies, and labor market softness did not significantly dampen holiday shopping enthusiasm. n nOnline transactions saw a notable jump of 10.4%, while in-store purchases edged up 1.7%, indicating sustained demand across both digital and physical retail environments. The figures are not inflation-adjusted. n nApparel and jewelry were the top-performing categories, reflecting strong consumer interest in personal goods. Supporting data from Pass_by shows a 1.17% increase in foot traffic at brick-and-mortar locations compared to 2023. n nAdobe Analytics reported that online sales reached $11.8 billion on Black Friday, a $1 billion increase from the prior year. This upward trend aligns with positive forecasts from major retailers. n nWalmart revised its annual outlook upward, and the National Retail Federation projects that the 2025 holiday season could be the first to surpass $1 trillion in total spending. n nWith Cyber Monday approaching, analysts will be watching for further signals about the strength of consumer spending as the year closes. n— news from Axios
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Black Friday retail sales rise 4% despite economic jitters
Black Friday retail sales growth picked up this year, Mastercard said Saturday, as shoppers shook off economic uncertainty and weak sentiment. n nWhy it matters: The consumer remains the engine of the U.S. economy, and a strong start to the holiday season will be reassuring to those who questioned whether tariffs and a soft labor market might crimp demand. n nBy the numbers: Friday’s retail sales excluding autos rose 4.1%, Mastercard SpendingPulse said in a statement. That’s stronger than last year’s 3.4% growth. n nOnline sales rose 10.4%; in-store sales rose 1.7%. The data are not adjusted for inflation. n nDemand was strongest for clothes and jewelry. n nThe Mastercard data lines up with other evidence that shoppers turned out Friday. n nPass_by, which analyzes retail foot traffic, said in-store visits rose 1.17% this year versus last. n nAdobe Analytics estimated Black Friday online spending at $11.8 billion, up a full $1 billion from last year. n nBetween the lines: Though economic vibes are generally weak, retailers are still optimistic. n nWalmart recently raised its outlook for the year, and the National Retail Federation expects this to be the first $1 trillion holiday season. n nWhat to watch: Cyber Monday will be the next key indicator of retail’s health.