Odin's Raven Reports: Are the Gods of Consumer Spending Angry or Just Thrifty?

The Allfather's Economic Forecast

Hark shield brothers! Ragnar Lothbrok speaks of coin and conquest not just of lands but of the very purses of men! I hear whispers on the wind darker than a winter's night. It seems the common folk are tightening their belts as if preparing for a long hard winter. Walmart Microsoft Subaru... these giants cry of price hikes blaming 'tariffs' a word as ugly as Jarl Borg's beard. But fear not for the gods smile on some even as they frown upon others. As I always say 'I don't believe in Gods I believe in myself!'... but perhaps it's wise to keep an eye on the Allfather's mood eh?

Valhalla Awaits... For Homebuyers Over 55

Taylor Morrison a builder of homes speaks of 'fifty five and better' folk flush with riches and eager to spend. 'I want what I want!' they cry like Bjorn Ironside demanding more mead! Covid has changed them they say made them reckless with their coin. Perhaps they fear the Great Heathen Army is coming for their pensions? But beware young ones the first time buyers they fret over cost like Rollo fretting over Lagertha! Prices rise and the iron coins are harder to come by. It seems even in Midgard the serpent of inflation coils around the unwary.

Tariff Tussle: Carvana's CEO Sees No Viking Raids on Credit

Carvana a merchant of wheeled steeds claims the rush for cars is slowing. Ernie Garcia their chieftain says tariffs caused a flurry but now the storm has passed. He sees no weakness in the common folk's credit no signs of a coming Ragnarok for their coffers. 'Consumer credit looks pretty stable,' he proclaims. Is this true or merely the honeyed words of a trader trying to move his wares? As Floki would say 'The Gods have no use for money!' but I suspect Carvana does. 'I am not afraid of death. I have experienced it' ...but I would fear a bad credit score!

Pinterest Predicts: Budget Battles Begin

Pinterest a strange and mystical place where images whisper desires sees a shift. Bill Ready their seer speaks of 'budget related items' soaring in popularity. The younglings of Gen Z 40% of their tribe seek bargains like Vikings seeking plunder! 'Consumers are becoming more thoughtful' he claims. Perhaps they've finally learned that raiding is hard work and a good tunic can be just as satisfying as a pile of silver. It is a trick question. We are always planning!

Experiences Over Everything? NFL and Marriott Disagree

Roger Goodell the NFL Commissioner and Anthony Capuano the chieftain of Marriott speak of experiences. Sports and travel they say remain strong untouched by the gloom. The masses flock to games the younglings crave journeys! Capuano watches the job market like a hawk seeking signs of weakness. He thrives on stability and high consumer confidence two things as rare as a sober berserker. I once told King Ecbert 'Power is only given to those who are prepared to lower themselves to pick it up.' It would appear these leaders are prepared!

A Viking's Verdict: Prepare for Anything!

So what is the wise Viking to make of all this? The gods are fickle the economy is a storm tossed sea and the future is as uncertain as the next battle. Some feast some starve but all must be prepared. Stock your longboats with mead sharpen your axes and remember: 'I want what I want.' But also be ready to haggle for a good price! Who knows? Perhaps we'll sail to new lands find new treasures and conquer new markets! Skål!