Trends and Challenges for Consumers in 2026

This podcast episode, recorded live from Morgan Stanley's Global Consumer and Retail Conference, focuses on the health of the U.S. consumer and the K economy. The discussion involves multiple experts analyzing consumer spending trends, the impact of inflation on different income groups, and expectations for future economic growth. They review Black Friday sales, noting mixed results and the outperformance of larger retailers and the higher-end consumer. The conversation also covers the potential influence of Federal Reserve policy on consumer spending, particularly for middle and lower-income households, with an anticipation of easing policies leading to neutral conditions and potential benefits in housing affordability.