Affluent Market Tracking Study #8: Fall 2005 Survey of the Wealthiest 10% of U.S. Households

The eighth in an ongoing series of research reports based on twice yearly surveys of the most affluent 10% of U.S. households (a total of 11 million households with an average income of $308,000 and average net worth of $2.7 million). These surveys regularly measure and track their current views as well as their 12-month outlook for the economy, the stock market and their personal earnings, savings, and investment objectives.

The survey tracks plans for major expenditures (automobiles, boats, cruises, vacation homes, primary residences, and major home remodeling) for the next 12 months. The survey also tracks anticipated changes in spending in 17 categories of products and services. These include fine jewelry and watches, domestic and international travel, dining in casual and upscale restaurants, furniture, major appliances, entertainment equipment, home computer equipment, entertainment, recreational activities, collectibles, designer and non-designer apparel, and charitable and political contributions.

For much of the preceding, the report shows historical trend data and data by demographic segment within the overall affluent population.

New information in the Fall 2005 report is derived from a series of questions about end of year holiday gift expenditures, which are estimated to total $57 billion (about 25% of the total holiday gift market) by the affluent market represented by this survey. This includes data by type of recipient (spouse, children, other relatives, and friends) on actual 2004 expenditures, planned expenditures for 2005, types of gifts to be given, types of outlets where gifts will be purchased, when shopping will be done, and types of gifts that respondents would like to receive.

Includes 29 tables.