Factbox-US holiday sales growth to be muted this year, forecasts show

In the last week of September, US weekly jobless claims saw a moderate increase, according to Haver Analytics. This uptick in claims may indicate shifts in the labor market, prompting discussions about economic stability and employment trends. While the rise is not alarming, it highlights the ongoing challenges some workers face in securing stable employment.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has withdrawn its broad support for the COVID-19 vaccine, raising concerns about public health and vaccination rates. This decision could lead to decreased confidence in vaccines and potentially hinder efforts to control the pandemic. It's crucial to understand the implications of this shift, as it may affect how communities respond to future health crises.

T-Mobile US Inc. is set to sell dollar-denominated senior unsecured notes in three parts, joining five other borrowers in accessing the US investment-grade primary market on Monday. This move is significant as it reflects the ongoing interest in investment-grade bonds, providing companies with a means to raise capital while offering investors a relatively secure investment option.

BMO Capital has raised its price target for Aritzia's stock to C$100, reflecting strong growth in the U.S. market. This adjustment highlights the company's robust performance and potential for continued success, making it an exciting time for investors and stakeholders alike.

Gold prices have surged past the crucial $3,900 per ounce mark, driven by a decline in the Japanese yen and increasing expectations for a U.S. interest rate cut. This rally is significant as it reflects investor confidence in gold as a safe haven amid economic uncertainties, making it a key asset for those looking to hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations.

Adobe Analytics has reported that online sales growth during the upcoming US holiday season is expected to slow down due to economic uncertainty. This is significant as it reflects consumer hesitance in spending, which could impact retailers and the overall economy. With inflation and other economic pressures, shoppers may tighten their budgets, leading to a less vibrant holiday shopping season than in previous years.

Adobe has projected that U.S. online holiday sales will exceed $250 billion, marking a 5.3% increase from last year. This growth is largely fueled by the rise of generative AI chatbots and browsers, along with increased traffic from social media platforms. This shift in consumer shopping behavior highlights the evolving landscape of retail, where digital engagement is becoming increasingly crucial for businesses.

A recent survey reveals that U.S. consumer concerns about inflation have dropped to their lowest level since early 2022. This is significant as it indicates a growing confidence among consumers regarding the economy, suggesting that they may be more willing to spend, which can further stimulate economic growth. Lower inflation worries can lead to increased consumer spending, benefiting businesses and potentially leading to a more robust economic recovery.

HSBC has updated its forecasts for 10-year Bund yields, reflecting a more optimistic outlook as the chances of an ECB rate cut diminish. This shift is significant as it indicates a strengthening economic environment in Europe, which could lead to higher yields and better returns for investors. Understanding these changes is crucial for market participants as they navigate the evolving landscape of interest rates and economic growth.

Moody's has raised alarms about the stagnation of job growth in the U.S., indicating that last month's data showed essentially no increase in employment. This situation is exacerbated by the government shutdown, which has halted the release of official labor statistics, leaving Wall Street and the Federal Reserve to depend on unreliable private reports. This matters because job growth is a key indicator of economic health, and a stall could signal broader economic challenges ahead.

Groupe SEB has revised its profit guidance for 2025, indicating a downturn in demand in both Europe and the U.S. This adjustment reflects broader economic challenges and consumer behavior shifts, which could impact the company's growth trajectory and investor confidence. Understanding these changes is crucial for stakeholders as they navigate the evolving market landscape.

Vietnam's footwear exports to the US saw a significant decline of 27% in September, largely attributed to the tariffs imposed during Trump's administration. This drop is concerning for the Vietnamese economy, as the US is a major market for its footwear products. The tariffs have made Vietnamese goods more expensive, leading to reduced demand. This situation highlights the ongoing trade tensions and their impact on global commerce, particularly for countries reliant on exports.

More retirees are turning to inflation-protected annuities, which offer increasing income over time, reflecting a growing trend in financial planning. This shift is significant as it helps retirees safeguard their purchasing power against inflation, ensuring they can maintain their standard of living. Additionally, many are opting for enhanced rates due to health issues, which highlights the importance of tailored financial solutions in retirement planning.

Pope Leo XIV is set to implement changes in the management of the Holy See's financial investments, which will reduce the influence of the Vatican Bank. This move is significant as it reflects the Pope's intention to enhance transparency and accountability in the Church's financial dealings, potentially impacting how funds are managed and invested in the future.

JPMorgan has announced a leadership change in its European banking division, with Filippo Gori stepping down and Conor Hillery and Matthieu Wiltz taking over as co-heads. This shift is significant as it reflects the bank's strategy to strengthen its regional presence and operations, especially after Gori managed the role from New York. Such changes can impact how the bank navigates the European market and responds to local challenges.

The UK's tax authorities, HMRC, are investigating the finances of George Cottrell, a key ally of Nigel Farage and supporter of Reform UK. This scoping exercise is focused on Cottrell's income and tax residency, raising questions about his business dealings. This matters as it highlights the scrutiny faced by political figures and their associates, especially regarding financial transparency and accountability.

Angola is looking to re-enter the eurobond market this year as the risk premium on its international debt decreases. This is significant because it indicates a recovery in investor confidence, especially as other African nations are also returning to the market. A successful eurobond sale could provide Angola with much-needed funds to support its economy, which has been heavily reliant on oil revenues.

Cory Doctorow's new book 'Enshittification' is stirring up conversations in the tech world, challenging the status quo and urging readers to rethink the impact of technology on society. This book matters because it addresses critical issues like digital rights and corporate power, encouraging a more informed public discourse about the future of technology.