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09 February 2021 | Press Release
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Copy LinkDebut US Consumer Dynamics Report Provides Quarterly Snapshot of Consumer Concerns, Spending Priorities, and Financial Health
Record-high stock valuations—and fewer things to spend on as COVID-19 restrictions enter a second year—are enticing more US consumers to invest discretionary funds in the stock market. In Q4 2020, 20% of consumers surveyed invested in shares of stocks or mutual funds, up from 16% in Q2. By contrast, record-low interest rates have resulted in just 43% of consumers putting money into savings in Q4—down from 49% in Q2.
These findings and more are detailed in US Consumer Dynamics Report: Q4 2020.It is the first in a new quarterly series drawn from The Conference Board® Global Consumer Confidence Survey, fielded online in 67 markets worldwide. Overall, the Q4 survey confirmed that pandemic-related forces—including more time at home, reduced opportunities to spend, and enhanced fiscal support from the government—continue to be the chief factors shaping consumer behavior in the United States.
“The booms and busts of a few unlikely ‘meme stocks’ have grabbed recent headlines, but the rise of individual investors tells a broader story about spending habits during COVID-19,” said Denise Dahlhoff, Senior Researcher at The Conference Board. “Trends like low interest rates and declining debt concerns—alongside below-normal spending on vacations and out-of-home entertainment due to pandemic restrictions—have left a portion of Americans with more disposable income and fewer ways to spend it. Stocks, which continue to yield strong returns, have become an increasingly attractive option for these consumers.”
Additional insights from the inaugural US Consumer Dynamics Report are featured below.
Media Contacts: Jonathan.Liu@tcb.org
About The Conference Board
The Conference Board is the member-driven think tank that delivers Trusted Insights for What’s Ahead®. Founded in 1916, we are a non-partisan, not-for-profit entity holding 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt status in the United States. www.conference-board.org
