The Currency - Play

Money meets lifestyle: Americans prioritize meaningful purchases this holiday season

Consumers are approaching the season with intention and some restraint, favoring purchases rooted in value and opportunities for connection, meaning, and shared moments.

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Business of Play: Vending machines expand convenience beyond snacks

Brands are using vending machines to meet consumers where they are with around-the-clock options.

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How AI is getting personal with shoppers

From predictive product suggestions to chat-based purchasing, AI-powered campaigns are helping retailers create personalized experiences to connect with consumers.

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Cold comfort: Winter travelers find warmth in flexibility

U.S. travel spending is driven by flexible travelers choosing shorter trips and enjoying steady prices on flights, hotels, and cruises for a stable winter travel season.

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Ring in: Saying yes to engagement season

A marriage proposal can balance love, money, and meaningful touches. Getting a good sense of the financial impact will help make for a joyful moment.

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A $1 trillion holiday season: Sparked by prices or purchases?

Analysts say this year’s retail cheer comes with a caveat: Growth appears steady on paper, but most of it reflects higher prices rather than heavier spending.

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Table Stakes

Cost is on the menu as nearly 7 in 10 Americans (68%) say Thanksgiving will be more expensive due to tariffs and inflation. Two thirds (66%) expect their grocery bill will rise compared to last year, with people expecting to spend an average of $137 on Thanksgiving dinner, with younger generations anticipating the highest costs.

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Business of Play: “Immersive” is the latest buzzword in entertainment and wellness

With high-tech experiences, consumers are looking to maximize their discretionary spending and savor the moment.

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Spooky spending set to reach $13.1B this year

Halloween spending is predicted to reach a new record this year, even as more than half of Americans say financial stress is weighing on their budgets.

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Trick-or-Treat-onomics

Over half of Americans (57%) say rising chocolate prices are changing how much they dish out for candy, according to a new Empower study. A third consider Halloween one of the costliest times of the year, and Americans plan to spend an average of $296 between costumes, decor and entertainment, while Millennials and Gen Z plan to spend almost double ($522, $435 respectively).

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Protein is the new food powerhouse

Protein-packed food and beverages are taking up more space in shopping carts, and companies are expanding the trend with menu and grocery launches.

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Autumn in the air: Holiday deals arrive later for travelers

Fall is shaping up to be one of the smartest times to travel, with lower airfares, tighter booking windows, and rising demand for off-peak getaways.