Who Is Going to Win This Holiday Season?
As the holiday season approaches, with customers making purchasing decisions based on their social media feeds and when “free two-day shipping” is the norm, both pure-play and brick and mortar retailers must be prepared to meet high customer expectations.
Despite the “Retail House-is-Falling” headlines, consumer spending is projected to increase 3.5 percent this year. With festivities around the corner, the season will usher in more than tinsel and lights — it will bring more customers to stores. So, what is key to being a “winner” in this competitive environment?
In this edition of “Retail & Consumer: Act Now,” A&M Senior Director Kristin Kohler Burrows, Manager Jana Gold and Managing Director Michael Simoncic examine the five types of retailers that are poised to have a profitable holiday season as well as what best practices each is leveraging on their way to the bank.
Code of Practice 9 – What Is It and Is It Right for You?
December 12, 2025
At A&M, we regularly work alongside our clients’ existing advisors to ensure that they benefit from our extensive experience in managing Code of Practice 9 enquiries.
Australian Distress Alert 2025
December 12, 2025
Our latest analysis reveals a marked increase in financial distress across Australian corporates, with several key sectors facing heightened pressure. The findings reflect a challenging economic environment shaped by persistent inflation, elevated interest rates, and sector-specific vulnerabilities.
A&M Benefits Reference Guide
December 11, 2025
Many of the limits that pertain to qualified retirement plans and benefit plans are set by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and are subject to cost-of-living adjustments. In 2026, employees will be able to increase their retirement savings and contributions to health savings accounts as a result of the increased limits. The IRS limits for 2026 are summarized in the table below along with certain important compliance deadlines.
ALVAREZ & MARSAL RELEASES Q3 2025 UAE BANKING PULSE
December 11, 2025
The quarter was marked by strong balance sheet expansion, continued earnings resilience, and stable margins despite a shifting interest rate environment.
