
AmEx Says 'Show Me the Money!' and Younger Generations Obey
Alright folks gather 'round! Your favorite tennis guru health enthusiast and occasional gluten dodger is here to break down the *real* news. American Express dropped their Q1 report and let me tell you it's more dramatic than a five set Grand Slam final! Apparently the big spenders are still spending big and it's the young guns – Millennials and Gen Z – leading the charge. 14% more can you believe it? Makes me wonder what they're buying. Probably more avocado toast. But hey who am I to judge? As I always say 'You have to believe in the long run in order to keep doing what you have to do.' And these youngsters are definitely investing in the long run... of their shopping sprees!
Leap Year Shenanigans and Tariff Tantrums
According to AmEx CFO Christophe Le Caillec business is booming even with all this talk about Trump's tariffs. Billed business rose 6% but a whopping 7% when adjusted for leap year. Clearly even money has to adjust every now and then. There's a lot of stability and strength despite the news and environment says Le Caillec. I find it fascinating. The older folks are holding back a bit probably hoarding their cash for… well I don't know golden yachts and anti aging cream? But the kids are all in swiping those cards like they’re going out of style. As I always say ' be the best version of yourself on and off the court'. I wonder if that is what is driving the spending...
Restaurants: The Ultimate Test of Financial Fitness
Now here's the kicker. Restaurant spending is up 8%! *Eight percent!* Le Caillec calls it the 'ultimate discretionary expense.' I couldn't agree more. Dining out is pure unadulterated pleasure a celebration of good food and even better company. Unlike buying say a lifetime supply of toilet paper in fear of tariff induced shortages a fancy dinner can't be 'brought forward.' It's a here and now indulgence a testament to the enduring human spirit. I'll raise a glass of lukewarm water (gotta stay hydrated folks!) to that!
Airline Spending Taking a Nosedive?
Okay so not everything is sunshine and organic gluten free roses. Airline transactions are a bit sluggish only up 3% (4% with the leap year magic). Maybe everyone is finally realizing that airline food is well airline food. Or perhaps they are simply too busy binging Netflix and ordering meal kits (made of avocado toast) at home. One can only wonder!
AmEx Stays Strong Tariffs Be Damned!
While other companies are pulling their earnings guidance faster than I can return a serve AmEx is standing tall. They're sticking to their revenue growth forecast of 8% to 10%. Now they did add a little disclaimer – 'Subject to the Macroeconomic Environment' – which is basically corporate speak for 'Anything could happen so don't blame us if things go south!' But hey optimism is key right? As I like to say 'I'm not the one who is afraid of taking risks.' Although I certainly hope AmEx is watching the economy closely. I need those points for my next gluten free retreat to the Himalayas!
A Slice of Humble Pie for the Experts?
So what does all this mean? Well it means that the world is a crazy place money is even crazier and young people really like to spend. It also means that predicting the future is harder than hitting a backhand winner against Roger Federer. But hey we keep swinging we keep spending (responsibly of course!) and we keep believing in the power of a good gluten free meal. Until next time folks! Remember to stay healthy stay happy and maybe invest in a good AmEx card!
deankrutzak
He nailed it! The restaurant spending comment is so true.
itsmadhavisiva
Now I want avocado toast!
Sonlar
This is the best financial analysis I've ever read.