© 2025 MICHIGAN PUBLIC
91.7 Ann Arbor/Detroit 104.1 Grand Rapids 91.3 Port Huron 89.7 Lansing 91.1 Flint
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Flint listeners: WFUM 91.1 FM continues to undergo maintenance and will be at low power throughout the week. We expect there to be periodic outages. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience. Click here to find other ways to listen.

Holiday shopping season rides rising consumer confidence

Steve Carmody
/
Michigan Radio

Holiday shoppers are feeling better about the U.S. and Michigan economies.

Economists credit holiday shoppers having a few extra dollars in their pockets this season.

Robert Dye is the chief economist for Comerica Bank. Dye points to falling gasoline prices and an improving job forecast as just a couple of factors helping boost consumer confidence over the holidays.

“I do expect the holiday shopping season to reflect a more secure, a more confident, and a more employed U.S. consumer,” says Dye.

But there is a dark cloud on the horizon: Inflation.

After being in check for several years, Dye expects inflation could begin to be an issue next year, as the Federal Reserve starts renormalizing interest rates.  

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Public since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting.
Related Content