Holiday season stories

Retailers brace for a “Christmas Returns Hangover” as eDesk reports a 45% spike in return requests from 26 December, denting profits.

AI is transforming Christmas CX from chaotic surge to controlled service, helping teams stay resilient, protect wellbeing and meet soaring demand.

Australian holiday shoppers are spending strategically, forcing retailers to sharpen promotions, personalise offers and boost in-store experience.

Two thirds of UK parents back government plans to cap children’s social media at two hours a day, new Uswitch research suggests.

Crypto fans pen a festive wishlist to Santa, hoping 2026 brings calmer markets, clearer rules and fewer awkward family debates.

Festive-season cyber fraud is surging across India, with Karnataka alone reporting losses above INR ₹2,000 crores, experts warn.

TikTok trends, AI tools and global flavours are transforming Kiwi Christmas menus, as Appetise data shows earlier, budget-savvy festive planning.

Intel launches a Canada laptop guide from CAD $399.99 to CAD $2,199.99, bundling select gaming models with a free blockbuster PC title.

Softonic issues festive-season guide warning of rising scams in fake shops, apps and delivery messages as online bargain hunting surges.

Cricut launches exclusive NZD $19.85 tattoo and magnet sheet packs at Harvey Norman NZ, targeting personalised holiday-season crafting.

US retailers face rising friendly fraud during Cyber Week as 77% of shoppers dispute charges via banks, threatening profits amid USD $43.7bn online spend.

Over half of Australians have received unwanted Christmas gifts, with 76% struggling to choose suitable presents each festive season, new research reveals.

Canadian businesses can boost holiday sales by combining digital with impactful print marketing like signage and personalised gifts to stand out locally.

The holiday rush is a make-or-break moment for Australia's online retailers.

New Zealand retailers risk losing NZD $12 billion this peak season as almost half of consumers shun businesses after one bad experience.

eCommerce platforms face rising AI-driven cyber threats ahead of 2025 holidays as attackers exploit vulnerabilities and stolen credentials for fraud.

Seventy percent of Australians plan to shop online this holiday season, with AI tools and Buy Now, Pay Later options driving a digital surge in sales.

Young Australians are most at risk as holiday online shopping scams surge, with Gen Z and Millennials more likely to engage in risky cyber behaviours this season.

Australian holiday spending is set to rise 18% to AUD $969 per shopper, driven by price hikes and stress, with many using AI to aid gift buying this season.

US banks boost AI spending to combat rising check fraud, linked to USD $12.5 billion loss, ahead of the holiday season peak in fraudulent activities.