11/30/2025
PricewaterhouseCoopers projects U.S. holiday spending will see its steepest drop since 2020:
• Overall spending down 5 percent
• Gift budgets down 11 percent
• Gen Z cutting back a striking 23 percent
When people spend less, the real question becomes: What drives the purchases we do make?
A 2023 Simple Money article, “The Psychology of Holiday Spending,” points out that overspending often happens when:
• We try to “re-create” the holidays of our childhood with bigger or more gifts
• We feel pressure to match the generosity of friends or family
• Retailers remind us that “time is running out,” and we click buy now before thinking twice
The real opportunity this season isn’t about spending less—it’s about spending with intention.
As we know, the best gifts are rarely the ones wrapped in paper.
When financial choices align with values, the holidays can feel lighter, less stressful, and more meaningful. Wishing a wonderful holiday to you and all those you love.