In this episode of ‘Your Personal Economist,’ Michelle Meyer, Chief Economist at the Mastercard Economics Institute, unwraps the 2025 holiday spending trends that matter most to shoppers.
Whether in busy stores or at home, consumers are navigating a season shaped by new habits, creative choices and evolving priorities.
- U.S. holiday sales are projected to rise 3.4% this year, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse™, which measures in-store and online retail sales representing all payment types.
- Shoppers are adapting — reusing decorations, embracing DIY and making smart choices to get the most value.
- Wellness and viral fashion are leading the way, with thoughtful gifts and fresh trends shaping holiday wish lists.
Holiday spending is more than just numbers. It’s about how we give, adapt and celebrate together. The real magic is in finding joy and meaning, no matter the circumstances.
Michelle Meyer Chief Economist and Head of the Mastercard Economics Institute
Access previous episodes here:
Episode 7
From uncertainty to opportunity: the concept of risk
In this episode of ‘Your Personal Economist,’ Michelle Meyer, Chief Economist at the Mastercard Economics Institute, explores how risk - or the possibility of unexpected outcomes - shapes today’s economy and the decisions we make every day.
Episode 6
The AI economy: turning innovation into impact
In this episode of ‘Your Personal Economist,’ Michelle Meyer, Chief Economist at the Mastercard Economics Institute, explores how AI is reshaping the way we live, work and spend.