Politics: U.S. Economy Shrinks in First Quarter of 2025

Why is the topic trending?  • Unexpected Economic Contraction: The article reports that the U.S. economy shrank in the first quarter of 2025, a surprising development as economists had predicted growth. • Reversal of Previous Growth: This contraction marks a significant shift from the 2.4 percent annualized growth experienced in the previous quarter (Q4 2024). • Impact…

Shopping: NRF expects ‘slower trajectory for consumer spending’ in 2025 as tariffs fuel uncertainty, inflation fears

Why it is the topic trending: • Economic Uncertainty: The primary reason for the trending topic is the anticipation of slower consumer spending in 2025, driven by economic uncertainty fueled by new tariffs and persistent inflation fears. This directly impacts the retail sector and has broader implications for the overall economy. • Tariff Implementation: President Trump’s announcement…

Shopping: 8 Recession Indicators We Just Can’t Ignore

• Why is this topic trending? • Economic Uncertainty: There is ongoing discussion and concern in the United States about the potential for a recession, leading people to look for signs and indicators in various aspects of life. • Cultural Commentary: The article uses cultural trends in wellness, fashion, and beauty as a lens to comment on…

Insight of the Day: Effects of Tariffs on U.S. Economy Pile Up

Why It Is the Topic Trending: The recent tariff actions introduced by the Trump administration are trending due to their significant predicted impacts on the U.S. economy, including reductions in GDP, job losses, and increased consumer costs.Overview: The Tax Foundation’s report details the economic repercussions of new and existing tariffs imposed by the U.S. government,…

Insight of the Day: 2025 Trends (Research World)

Detailed Findings (Organized by Trend):1. Trust Collapse: Declining trust in both institutions and fellow citizens, creating economic friction and challenges for businesses.2. Birthrate Decline:  Global population is projected to peak in the 2080s, with over half of all countries below the replacement rate, leading to a shrinking youth market and potential economic slowdown.3. Social & Political Polarization: Increasing…

Insight of the Day: What’s the state of fashion? Navigating the 2025 maze

Findings1. Economic Uncertainty: The fashion industry faces economic uncertainty, with sluggish growth expected to continue.2. Consumer Behavior Shifts: Consumers are becoming more price-sensitive and cautious in their spending.3. Dupes and Resale: The rise of dupes (replicas) and the expansion of the resale market are notable trends.4. Regional Differences: Regional disparities in consumer behavior and market…

Insight of the Day: What a Trump presidency means for CPG brands

FindingsA Trump presidency will introduce shifts in economic policies, trade regulations, and consumer behavior, affecting CPG brands across industries.Key impacts will include rising costs due to tariffs, a re-evaluation of messaging strategies, and the need for brands to balance economic populism with social and environmental commitments.Key TakeawayCPG brands must focus on flexibility, empathy, and resilience to…

Insight of the Day: Global Economic Outlook: Q4 2024

Findings: • Global Real GDP Growth: Projected to be 3.2% in 2024 and remain stable in 2025 but below pre-pandemic levels. • Inflation: Expected to ease from 6.5% in 2024 to 3.8% in 2025, with disinflation reaching key markets. • Advanced Economies: Mixed growth prospects, with the US experiencing a slowdown, the Eurozone gradually recovering,…

Insight of the Day: Americans are feeling anxious — so they’re ‘doom spending’

FindingsAmericans, especially younger generations, are engaging in “doom spending” as a coping mechanism in response to economic uncertainty, political anxiety, and constant exposure to negative news.Key TakeawayDoom spending is a consumer behavior where people make purchases to temporarily relieve feelings of stress, uncertainty, and pessimism about the future.TrendThe trend revolves around emotional spending to manage…