November 27, 2019
How does Black Friday impact the economy?
So, Black Friday is known for kicking off the holiday shopping season and the weekend can be critical to retailer's annual performance. Investors also see it as a good indicator of the health of the retail industry. Last Thanksgiving weekend, 165 million Americans went shopping in stores and online. Online alone for Black Friday, they spent $6.2 billion.
What is the role of the retail sector in the economy?
So, consumer spending drives a lot of the economy. And in fact, economists say it is one of the most important economic indicators. The National Retail Federation says that it contributes $2.6 trillion to annual GDP.
More For You
- YouTube
A decade after Britain voted to leave the European Union, Ian Bremmer breaks down what Brexit changed, and whether it delivered on its biggest promises.
Most Popular
Think you know what's going on around the world? Here's your chance to prove it.
Sports betting and online gambling is increasingly being seen as a way to make ends meet in South Africa
The Houthi escalation, Venezuelan democracy, Putin in a corner, and more: Your questions, answered
Jul 29, 2026
Ian Bremmer answers reader questions about geopolitical risks and potential conflicts, from the Middle East and the South China Sea to Ukraine and Venezuela.
© 2025 GZERO Media. All Rights Reserved | A Eurasia Group media company.
