Why Are People Spending Like Crazy if the Economy Is So Bad?

Americans say the economy feels terrible—but they’re still booking vacations, renovating homes, and packing stores. Why is there such a disconnect between consumer confidence and consumer spending?

On this episode of Payne Points of Wealth, Ryan Payne, Bob Payne, Chris Payne, and Courtney Garcia explore how rising household wealth, retiring baby boomers, and higher interest income may be helping keep spending strong—even as affordability remains a real challenge for many families.

Plus, we discuss why interest rates are rising globally, how AI investment and manufacturing reshoring could support economic growth, and what the 2026 midterms could mean for stocks. Could falling oil prices and political gridlock set the stage for a year-end rally?