Miscellaneous

CivicScience reports that 54% of U.S. adults say their feelings of patriotism have shifted compared to last year, influencing spending behavior. Those feeling more patriotic are more likely to be less price-sensitive and more inclined to make travel plans and dine out. Additionally, middle-income households are increasingly spending $500–$2,000 on summer camps, and graduation gift trends show a decline in electronics in favor of clothes and home goods.

Real Estate - Homes

The U.S. housing market saw active listings reach their highest level since March 2020, with a 16.7% year-over-year increase. Despite this, existing home sales fell to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.2 million in April, the lowest since October 2024. Economic uncertainty and elevated mortgage rates, averaging 6.73%, are contributing to buyer hesitation.

Supermarkets

Despite strong sales growth over the last year, fresh produce retailers cannot be complacent. Evolving market dynamics, including higher sector prices, greater competition from stores in a host of retail channels, shifting shopper interests, and the threat of product waste necessitates fluid merchandising strategies that enable retailers to quickly respond to sector changes, analysts said.