Seventy percent of Americans using credit cards for holiday shopping will carry balances into 2026. The survey of 2,000 winter holiday celebrants found 35% plan to use credit cards for purchases, but only 17% always pay bills in full. Eighteen percent expect to still be paying holiday debt through June or later. Forty-seven percent reported being surprised by interest costs from past holiday shopping. Despite financial challenges, shoppers maintain intentional spending approaches. Two primary types emerged: The Giver, representing 35% who balance generosity with realistic spending limits, and The Planner, comprising 27% who create lists, establish budgets, and maintain discipline. Meanwhile, 44% have used or plan to use AI for holiday shopping, with younger generations leading adoption at 60% for Gen Z and 55% for millennials. (Story URL)
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