Black Friday kicked off the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, and the latest in-store traffic and promotional insights suggest a mixed start to the popular spending period. U.S. consumers spent a record $9.8 billion on Friday, up 7.5% year over year, according to the latest data from Adobe Analytics. Meanwhile, the annual online shopping event known as Cyber Monday is slated to bring in between $12 billion and $12.4 billion, Adobe estimates. Despite the seeming rush to shop, this Black Friday ushered in moderately higher promotions over last year and mixed in-store traffic, according to some Wall Street analysts. “These initial reads suggest the season has been lackluster so far,” said UBS analyst Michael Lasser in a Monday note to clients. “While it’s early, we think it’s best to have muted expectations for the rest of the holiday. This period is likely to include ups and downs.” As the scramble to buy up toys, gaming devices and new gadgets for the impending holidays gain steam, analysts highlighted some of the season’s early winners and losers — and what to look out for with roughly a month left to Christmas. Black Friday winners Value-focused shopping destinations seemed to win big on Friday, based on annual store checks from a slew of Wall Street shops. Five Below , Ollie’s Bargain Outlet and Walmart also showed strong Black Friday traffic, according to KeyBanc Capital Markets analyst Bradley Thomas, with Ollie’s showed the greatest strength, particularly within toys, small appliances and consumer electronics. On the traffic front, Target showed some sluggishness, with most consumers piling up on essentials versus discretionary items, he noted. Thomas attributed some of that slowness to the early Black Friday sales. Kohl’s also seemed to win big this Black Friday with improved line counts, according to Morgan Stanley. Analyst Alex Straton called the department store a “clear leader,” noting signs that new management changes are likely underway. Lululemon preserved as a leading sportwear winner, and brand to shop at this year. Multiple Wall Street firms noted snaking lines and limited discounts at the athleisure company. Goldman Sachs analyst Kate McShane also noted that Lululemon, along with Dick’s Sporting Goods , Bath & Body Works and Best Buy showed a “little stronger than average” traffic. Along with Bath and Body Works, beauty retailers such as Ulta Beauty scored big this Black Friday, with JPMorgan’s Matthew Boss calling it a “leading category” within department stores. Piper Sandler’s Korinne Wolfmeyer noted a slight uptick in traffic at both Ulta and Sephora despite declines at other retailers. “We’re seeing mass skincare and makeup as increasingly better positioned here, but we also see areas of exception like in fragrance,” she wrote. The Black Friday shopping extravaganza also ushered in some bullish sentiment toward Shopify . The Canadian e-commerce company seemed to triumph as a dominant player, hitting $4.1 billion in sales and showing 22% growth from a year ago. That should signal upside to growth merchandise value growth expectations for the fourth quarter in the high teens, according to Morgan Stanley’s Keith Weiss, against a backdrop of what appears to be resilient e-commerce spending. Deutsche Bank’s Bhavin Shah also highlighted Shopify’s “impressive” Black Friday growth as a sign of some upside ahead to fourth-quarter expectations. That said, investors shouldn’t get too excited given that it represents one day, he noted. Black Friday losers Not every popular retailer seemed to kick off the holiday shopping period on a strong note. Nordstrom , for example, showed similar line counts even with higher discounts, which could signal that “mgmt.’s revised go-forward strategy is doing little to impact the P & L, as evidenced by still-challenged 3Q fundamentals,” Straton wrote. Straton also highlighted American Eagle Outfitters as a laggard that saw average line counts decline about 30% from last year. While Lululemon drove strong in-store traffic, helped in part by advertising use in Black Friday markdowns, Nike and Under Armour both showed higher promotions, said Piper Sandler’s Abbie Zvejnieks. “Similar to last year, select premium brands within our coverage including On Running, HOKA, UGG, and lululemon were able to maintain pricing over the weekend while we saw the highest promotions within private label athletic apparel and footwear with discounts often 50% off or higher,” she said.
Have you ever wondered about the stories a home can tell? Every home has a history, and researching it can be both practical and rewarding, especially for a new home you’re planning to move to.
Researching the history of a home you’re considering purchasing can help you identify any potential problems, such as past damage or structural alterations. This information can be helpful in negotiating a lower price or making informed decisions about repairs.
Learning about the history of your current home can also be emotionally gratifying. It can help you feel more connected to your community and the people who lived there before you. It can also give you a sense of pride in your home and a deeper appreciation for its unique character.
In addition to the practical and emotional benefits, understanding your home’s history can have safety benefits, too. For example, knowing about past flooding or fire incidents can help you make necessary repairs or take proactive steps to prevent future disasters.
So, why not take the time to learn about the history of your home? You might be surprised at what you discover.
What Do I Need To Begin Researching A House?
Are you ready to go all Sherlock Holmes on your home’s history? Here are the essential tools you’ll need to get started:
Address: Make sure you have the full and accurate address, including any old street names or historical street numbers.
Year of construction: This is your time anchor. Knowing when your home was built can guide your research chronologically.
Deeds, titles, and tax records: These can be treasure troves of information, hinting at previous owners, land disputes, and value changes.
Previous owner information: Even if it’s just names or vague details, any clue can lead to more comprehensive discoveries.
Photographs, maps, and other visual resources: Old photos can reveal architectural changes, while maps might show shifts in property boundaries or neighborhood development.
Architectural plans: If available, they provide insight into the home’s original design and any subsequent modifications.
Oral histories: Chat with longtime neighbors or community members. Their stories might offer a unique personal perspective on the house’s past.
With these tools in hand, you’re ready to begin your exciting historical expedition. Remember, every snippet of information, no matter how trivial it seems, could be the key to unveiling a captivating chapter of your home’s tale.
How Can I Find the History of a House Online?
Are you intrigued by the secrets of your house? If so, tracing its history can be a fascinating journey. Here are some online resources that can help you get started:
These maps provide a fascinating glimpse into urban growth, showing the structural footprints of cities and towns throughout history. They can be used to see how your house has changed over time and to learn about the businesses and industries that may have once operated in the area.
If your home is architecturally or historically significant, it may be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This designation can provide you with access to a wealth of information about your home’s history, including photographs, architectural drawings, and historical documents.
This service can tell you if any deaths have occurred at a particular address in the United States. While it may seem morbid, this information can be important for understanding the history of your home and its previous owners.
The U.S. Census Bureau keeps a trove of records, including the names of previous owners of your home. These records can be used to track down the life stories of your home’s former residents and learn about the social and economic history of the area.
If you’re concerned about flooding, you can request flood loss data for your property from FEMA. This data can help you assess the risk of flooding at your home and take steps to mitigate that risk. You can procure flood loss data for your property by either faxing an NFIP Loss History Report Request to 703-960-9125, calling 877-336-2627 or 800-638-6620, or e-mailing. Remember, such requests are typically limited to property owners.
NARA is the guardian of countless historical, genealogical, and land records. These records can be used to learn about the ownership history of your home, as well as the history of the land on which it sits.
Familysearch.org is a free genealogy website that can help you trace your home’s lineage back to its previous residents. This can be a great way to learn about the people who lived in your home before you and to connect with your family history.
Cyndi’s List is a treasure trove of links for genealogical research. The dedicated House & Building Histories page is a great place to start your search for information about your home’s history.
These are just a few of the many resources available to help you trace the history of your home. With a little bit of research, you can uncover a fascinating story about the people, places, and events that have shaped your home over the years.
Who Can I Talk to About the History of a House?
Unraveling the history of a house can be like piecing together a jigsaw puzzle. Below are a few people and places that can provide valuable insights.
Neighbors
Long-term residents can be the living archives of a neighborhood, holding memories and anecdotes about past occupants, events, and the evolution of the area. They may be able to tell you about the house’s original owners, any famous residents it had, or any significant events that happened there. They may also be able to point you to other sources of information such as old photographs or newspaper articles.
Real Estate Agents
When considering buying a house, many people are curious about its past, including any deaths that may have occurred within its walls. A real estate agent can shed light on some of these details, though disclosure laws vary from place to place. It’s essential to consult your local real estate regulations for precise information. The agent may also be able to provide you with information about the house’s recent history, such as who the previous owners were and why they sold the house.
Local Library
Libraries, especially those in older towns or cities, often have a collection of historical records, old newspapers, and property documents. The local history section could become a mine of information, unveiling stories and facts about your house’s past. You may be able to find information about the house’s construction, its owners, and any significant events that happened there. You may also be able to find photographs, maps, and other documents that can help you visualize the house’s history.
Historical Society Archives
Dedicated to preserving the memories of a town or region, historical societies collect and maintain archives that can offer a detailed account of properties, significant events, and notable residents. Their repositories can include photographs, maps, blueprints, and letters that paint a comprehensive picture of a house’s journey through time. You may be able to find information about the house’s original design, its subsequent renovations, and the people who lived there over the years.
In addition to these resources, you may also want to consider contacting the following:
The county recorder’s office: This office may have records of the house’s deed, mortgage, and other property documents.
The tax assessor’s office: This office may have records of the house’s assessed value and property taxes.
The planning department: This office may have records of the house’s zoning, permits, and other planning documents.
By connecting with the right people and visiting local establishments, you can dive deep into your home’s history and uncover a fascinating story.
What Are Some Red Flags In A House’s History?
When researching the history of a potential home, certain red flags may indicate hidden problems or potential future headaches. Being aware of these red flags can help prospective homeowners make informed decisions. Below are some significant areas of concern you should be aware of.
Flooding and Water Damage
A history of flooding or water damage can suggest both visible and invisible problems. Beyond the obvious visual damage, there may be hidden structural issues or potential mold growth. These repairs can be both expensive and time-consuming.
Fire Damage
While a home may appear renovated after a fire, underlying damage, especially to essential structural components, can persist. Such a history can also affect insurance premiums or even the ability to insure the property.
Criminal Past
Homes that have been the scenes of notable crimes, especially violent ones, may not only have a stigma attached but can also be difficult to resell in the future. The emotional weight of such a history is a consideration for many potential buyers.
Environmental Concerns
A property located near former landfills, hazardous waste sites, or in areas known for environmental contamination can pose long-term health risks. Pollutants, toxic chemicals, or even harmful gases may permeate the ground, air, or water sources around such homes.
Structural Problems
Prior structural issues, such as foundation problems, roof leaks, or major wall cracks can be predictors of recurring problems. Even if repaired, the house may be more susceptible to these issues in the future due to inherent weakness.
Code Violations
A house with a history of code violations — ranging from unpermitted renovations to serious safety breaches like improper wiring — can be a problem. Such violations may not only indicate shoddy work quality but could also pose obstacles to obtaining mortgages or insurance.
A house’s history can serve as a roadmap to potential problems. By remaining vigilant and recognizing these red flags, potential homeowners can ensure they are making a safe and sound investment.
How Can I Use The Information I Find?
From a Buyer’s Perspective
Researching a potential home’s history can offer insights that can greatly influence a purchase decision. Unearthing red flags such as past floods, fire damage, or code violations can help you make a more informed evaluation of the property, both in terms of its structural integrity and its potential future costs.
Positive historical discoveries can add an intangible charm, making the property more appealing. For example, if you learn that the house was once owned by a famous person or was the site of a significant event, it may make you feel more connected to the property.
From an Owner’s Perspective
Diving into the property’s past might lead to discoveries of historical or emotional significance. For example, you may find old photographs, artifacts, or anecdotes that tell the story of the house and its former residents. Preserving these findings not only adds value to the home but also creates a trove of stories for future generations.
Documentation becomes key, ensuring that the house’s legacy and character remain intact and appreciated over time. By preserving these historical elements, homeowners become the caretakers of their home’s narrative, enriching its story for future dwellers.
Conclusion
Delving into the history of a house is a journey that extends beyond brick and mortar. It offers potential buyers a lens through which they can gauge a property’s worth and its future prospects. For homeowners, it’s a chance to appreciate and preserve the rich tapestry of stories their dwelling holds. Recognizing and utilizing a home’s history not only empowers decision-making but also forges deeper connections between dwellers and their abodes, ensuring that each house remains more than just a structure — it’s a testament to times gone by.
CHICAGO — ADM has promoted Ian Pinner to senior vice president, president of nutrition and chief sales and marketing officer. Mr. Pinner succeeds Vince Macciocchi, who is retiring at the end of the year.
Mr. Pinner has been with ADM since 1999 and has held several leadership roles throughout his tenure with the company. Most recently, Mr. Pinner was chief strategy and innovation officer for the past five years.
As the market gets off to a strong start for the new month, Piper Sandler sees the stars aligning for certain stocks. The firm compiled its “triple select list” for November, which screens for stocks that stand to gain from a convergence of positive factors aligning: A favorable macroeconomic outlook, strong company fundamentals an attractive technical backdrop. All stocks on the Piper Sandler list have an overweight rating. Piper Sandler’s high-conviction list comes as stocks head for their best week of the year . A softer-than-expected jobs report as well as hope that the Federal Reserve could be nearing the end of its monetary tightening cycle underpinned the uptick in stocks. E-commerce giant Amazon made the Piper Sandler list, underpinned by both its earnings growth and momentum heading into future results. The firm also noted that Amazon stock is headed toward its 52-week high and could break out above $146 per share. Shares have surged more than 64% this year. AMZN YTD mountain Amazon YTD “We view AMZN as a top Internet name to own given improving margin profile, stabilizing AWS [Amazon Web Services] trends, logistics moat, and consumer mind-share,” analyst Thomas Champion said. “As the company distances itself from the pandemic overbuild and the benefits of the regional fulfillment structure are realized, we see North American retail margins returning to their pre-pandemic peak.” Athleisure company Lululemon also made the cut. The clothing retailer has climbed roughly 27% in 2023. LULU YTD mountain Lululemon in 2023. Analyst Abbie Zvejnieks noted that Lululemon stock is benefiting from bullish relative strength while also closing near its 52-week high in recent days. The analyst also noted there’s “constructive price action” above the stock’s 40-week moving average along with “strong realized earnings growth.” “LULU is one of our top ideas as the leader in material innovation in the athletic apparel space with best-in-class operating margin of ~22% due to a full price selling model and primarily direct-to-consumer strategy (~45% of revenue from company owned stores and ~45% of revenue from ecommerce),” Zvejnieks said. Elsewhere, biotechnology firm Amgen also made the list. Shares have ticked up about 2% from the start of 2023. AMGN YTD mountain Amgen stock. Analyst Christopher Raymond thinks Amgen is finding support near the $250 level, which aids a relative strength outlook and presents investors with a buying opportunity. “AMGN has very high profitability compared to sector peers and offers a lower beta than most in the sector,” Raymond said.