The BEST Pre-Trump Holiday Spending Strategy

And why retailers are messing with you..

I was recently asked by USA Today how Americans should prepare for the possible Trump tariffs. The implication being, of course, that things were about to get very expensive so we should preemptively load up our virtual carts “just in case”.

My advice as quoted in the story:

“Tune out the noise and focus on the economy of one: you and your priorities,” said Bobbi Rebell, certified financial planner and personal finance expert at BadCredit.org. “Don’t ever spend in panic mode.”

Here’s the thing: Retailers have a vested interest in getting you to spend in panic mode. They want to tap into a scarcity mindset.

If you don’t buy now, the sale will end! We won’t have any left if you wait! Trump will impose massive tariffs and the price will skyrocket!

Here are some more holiday shopping Financial Wellness Strategies:

Return policies matter!

Find out how long you have to return an item and if you will have to pay for shipping it back! Remember that many electronics stores often charge “restocking fees”

Sign up for cash back sites like Rakuten and Honey.

They will automatically apply the cash back rewards when you shop.

Pro-tip: Before you shop, go directly to their websites and see which stores are offering the best cash back offers, and go from there.

Use price comparison tools!

Google Shopping is my personal favorite but others like Honey and Capital One Shopping also get good marks.

Use AI to create personalized gifts and experiences.

AI technologies can now help craft hyper-personalized gifts by analyzing recipient preferences, past interests, and digital behavior

Some examples that I got from MY favorite AI assistant Perplexity:

• Retailers like Walmart and Amazon are using AI-powered personalization features to offer tailored gifting recommendations

• SwagUp AI offers asuite of AI-powered tools uses advanced algorithms to analyze customer data, predict preferences, and generate personalized gift recommendations

Let’s talk Financial Wellness in 2025!

Please invite me to speak to your group!

HR professionals, employee resource groups, book clubs, conference organizers, universities and friends..

I'm now booking 2025 speaking engagements.

If you're looking to support your students, employees, conference attendees and anyone you think want to feel better about their money situation, I'd love to chat.

Here are some recent testimonials:

"Bobbi's presentation was fun and informative! Loved her quick tips that helped me decipher through financial jargon and understand how I can take actionable steps today to achieve my financial goals in the future."

"The session was great. The speaker really opened my eyes to the small positive changes I can make in spending, budgeting, and saving. I am more motivated now to sit down and plan where my money is being allocated!"

"Bobbi Rebell is a remarkable financial expert whose workshops are both engaging and transformational. Her ability to simplify complex financial concepts empowers employees to take actionable steps toward financial wellness and long-term stability.”

I have several signature talks available IRL or virtual including:

• The Financial Wellness Checklist

• Financial Wellness for Women

• How to be a Financial Grownup

• How to have Multi-Generational Conversations about Money and Values
  

  And of course we can always create a customized talk to suit your needs.
  
  You can learn more on my company website Financial Wellness Strategies, email me at bobbi@financialwellnessstrategies.com or just hit the button below to message me for more info.

PS: I love and appreciate referrals. Please share my information if you know someone who might like to learn more as well! Thank you.

Results from our poll in the last newsletter on investing:

The bottom line:

We aren’t throwing darts at a random list of stocks and hoping for the best.

We are intentional and thoughtful when it comes to where we invest our hard-earned dollars and are proud of it!

Looking for an affordable yet valuable gift this holiday season? Consider my book “Launching Financial Grownups”!

Bonus: Gift someone a subscription to this newsletter by sharing using the button below! It’s free and (hopefully in your opinion) will lead to a rich and rewarding 2025!

Lets connect on TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn and please share any ideas in the comments (or just say hi!).

Happy Holidays my friends! I truly appreciate your support.