Is the Consumer Sector (XRT) Trying to Bottom?

Is the Consumer Sector (XRT) Trying to Bottom?

On April 28th, I sat down with Maggie Lake on her show, Maggie Lake Talking Markets. While we covered a lot of topics on my mind lately, the consumer is the ultimate test on the next market and economic direction. Remember, we look forward, not backwards. The consumer, as seen through the eyes of the Retail Sector ETF (NYSEARCA: XRT), is positive but not decisive. This daily chart of the Retail Sector ETF (XRT) shows why. While holding critical …

Where’s the Value in Consumer Discretionary Stocks?

In yesterday’s edition, we saw that only two sectors beat the S&P 500’s return of 4.6% last week. Those were the technology and consumer discretionary sectors, which are where all seven of the “Magnificent Seven” stocks live. I explained how indexes like the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 hold the Mag-7 stocks in weights that far exceed most other stocks in the sector. This means these seven stocks have a lot of sway, but it doesn’t mean they’re the bes…

How Retail Loyalty Programmes Deliver Value During Inflation

Inflation is forcing consumers and businesses alike to rethink their priorities. For shoppers, this often means cutting unnecessary spending, trading down, or seeking out better value. For retailers, it means finding innovative ways to retain customers, drive sales, and maintain loyalty in an increasingly competitive environment. Enter retail loyalty programmes: a powerful tool that’s being reimagined amid economic uncertainty. Beyond offering…

Winning Consumer Loyalty During Inflationary Times

Inflation anxiety is growing, and shoppers are becoming more selective, value-driven and emotionally invested in the brands they choose to support. This shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity: brands that recognize the evolving consumer mindset and adjust their strategies can win long-term loyalty, while those that fail to adapt risk being left behind. […]