It may be a year for shopping prudently, but we’re still expected to spend a record amount this holiday season.
The National Retail Federation says spending will reach between $942 billion and $960 billion, up from last year when holiday sales hit a record $889.3 billion.
As Black Friday approaches, analysts say there are several categories you should avoid, including tech accessories, seasonal items such as winter clothes and holiday decorations, appliances, furniture and fitness equipment.
Container lines are set to cancel a record number of sailings in the run-up to Christmas to try to shore up sliding freight rates. Carriers are expected to scrap two-thirds of sailings on the transatlantic and more than half on the transpacific in the pre-Christmas period. That compares with 38% on the Europe to Asia trade lane.
Markets opened with gains today after stocks closed sharply higher yesterday. The Dow Industrials gained 397, the Nasdaq added 150 and the S&P 500 was up 53.





