U.S. companies face challenges due to split between lower-income and affluent consumers from tariffs, causing uncertainty. Some are delaying purchases while others continue spending. Consumers seek deals as inflation remains above 2%. Consumer sentiment is pessimistic, with 3% inflation rate. Many plan to shop on Thanksgiving for discounts. Companies like Coca-Cola and Procter & Gamble adapt with smaller-sized products.

Credit market jittery with bankruptcy filings from lenders catering to lower-income groups. PrimaLend and Tricolor filed for bankruptcy, while PROG Holdings cut revenue outlook. Financial stress among lower-income consumers affects gross merchandise volume. New tariffs on truck imports add more challenges for companies. Some may have to absorb cost increases.

Hotel chains experience softness in budget brands, introduce discounts. Toy sales drop in third quarter due to cautious customers. Hasbro’s gaming business targets wealthier consumers, raising annual targets. Companies feel impact of split between affluent and lower-income consumers on sales and profits. Tough business environment for those not targeting well-to-do consumers.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: US firms grapple with economic divide as lower income struggles mount