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Holiday Shoppers Face Greater Financial Pressure, Making Payment Choice More Important

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Seventh annual ETA-TSG study finds 44% of consumers feel more financially stressed, while 57% report negative consequences when merchants don’t accept their preferred payment method

WASHINGTON, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Holiday shoppers are entering the 2026 season under greater financial pressure, and payment flexibility has become one of the clearest ways merchants can win and keep their business, according to a study released today by the Electronic Transactions Association (ETA) and TSG (The Strawhecker Group).

The seventh annual Consumer Holiday Spending Study found that 44% of consumers feel more financially stressed than last year, up from 27% in 2025. Thirty percent report more debt than two years ago, up from 17%, and 33% say they usually take on holiday debt or likely will this year, up from 19%. Concern rose across all eight shopping issues measured by the study, led by inflation (82%). Concern about the affordability of gifts (64%) and managing a budget (57%) each rose 17 percentage points.

Consumers are responding by planning their spending more carefully. Seventy-two percent plan to set a holiday budget this year, and only 23% will shop without one, down from 40% in 2025. Seventy-three percent plan to spend less than $1,000 on holiday purchases. Spending plans are more polarized than last year: 22% expect to spend more, up from 18%, while 32% expect to spend less. This points to a competitive season in which consumers continue to spend but are selective about where those dollars go.

“Consumers are being careful with every dollar this year, and they are paying close attention to how they pay,” said Jodie Kelley, CEO of the Electronic Transactions Association. “Merchants that offer the payment options their customers rely on, with clear terms and strong security, are in the best position to win the sale and keep the customer. The payments industry is helping businesses of every size do exactly that.”

The study of 1,099 U.S. consumers, conducted September 8–13, 2026, found that payment acceptance directly affects where consumers shop. When a merchant does not accept a shopper’s preferred payment method, 24% of consumers would look for the same product at another merchant, and 7% would abandon or postpone the purchase. Another 26% would complete the transaction using a different method but would be less likely to return. In total, 57% report a negative consequence for the merchant.

Newer payment methods are becoming routine. Eighty-one percent of consumers use tap-to-pay regularly, and 89% of those who try it continue using it. Digital wallets and peer-to-peer (P2P) apps also see strong repeat usage, at 61% and 60%, respectively.

“Rising stress and debt make payment flexibility more appealing, and they make transparency and responsible financing more important,” said Mike Strawhecker, President of TSG. “Consumers are telling merchants that value and checkout flexibility matter more than speed. The merchants that deliver both will be best positioned this season.”

The study also found:

Online shopping: Free shipping (74%) and the ability to pay how they want (72%) are shoppers’ top priorities for online purchases.

Gift cards: 71% plan to buy at least one gift card, led by retailer-specific cards.

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL): Opinion is split, with 37% viewing BNPL favorably and 36% unfavorably. Twenty percent expect to use it more this season than last.

AI-assisted shopping: 46% plan to use AI tools to compare prices, but only 23% would let AI complete a purchase on their behalf.

The complete study is available here.

About the Electronic Transactions Association (ETA): The Electronic Transactions Association (ETA) is the world’s leading advocacy and trade association for the payments industry. ETA’s members include the world’s leading payments and financial technology companies—including payment processors, networks, banks, fintechs, software providers, independent software vendors, and payment technology innovators—collectively processing approximately $56.75 trillion annually in purchases and peer-to-peer payments worldwide. Learn more about ETA at www.electran.org.

Media Contact: Scott Talbott, stalbott@electran.org

About TSG: TSG (The Strawhecker Group) is a globally recognized analytics and consulting firm that supports the entire payments ecosystem, serving over 1,000 clients from Fortune 500 leaders to more than a dozen of the world’s most valuable brands. Trusted by industry leaders, TSG’s strategic services, market intelligence, and analytics merge to empower clients with actionable and accessible information. Please visit www.tsgpayments.com.

Media Contact: Andy Nuss, anuss@tsgpayments.com

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SOURCE Electronic Transactions Association (ETA)

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SCANOLOGY Introduces AirGO Pad for On-Site 3D Scanning, Inspection and Reporting

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HANGZHOU, China, Oct. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — SCANOLOGY introduces AirGO Pad, an integrated mobile measurement platform that brings 3D scanning, inspection and reporting alongside the part being measured. Combining computing, industrial 3D inspection software and touchscreen operation, AirGO Pad works with compatible SCANOLOGY wireless 3D scanners to help operators complete the inspection workflow on-site without carrying a separate laptop.

When inspecting a large component, operators need to move around the part while keeping scan data and measurement controls accessible. Finding a suitable place for a laptop—and returning to it to check results or adjust settings—can interrupt that process, particularly where space is limited. AirGO Pad places the inspection interface on a portable tablet, allowing operators to view data and interact with the software beside the component.

Users can connect a compatible wireless 3D scanner and view 3D data in real time, monitoring scan coverage and quality as they work. They can then align data, perform measurements and inspect results on the same device. During scanning, operators can create comparison points, features and other inspection elements as needed. Preconfigured report templates complete the workflow, enabling standardized inspection reports to be generated directly on AirGO Pad.

The platform’s design supports these transitions between scanning, inspection and reporting. Its high-definition touchscreen keeps model details and measurement results within reach. Operators can use the tablet in handheld mode while moving around the part, then unfold the convertible stand to review results on a suitable surface. A neck strap provides additional support when carrying and operating the device.

“Making a measurement system mobile means considering more than how operators carry the 3D scanner. They also need access to their data and inspection tools beside the part. We developed AirGO Pad to bring these activities together, from reviewing scan data to producing the inspection report,” said a product manager at SCANOLOGY.

AirGO Pad supports SCANOLOGY’s third-generation handheld and wireless optical 3D scanning systems, standard CAD/3D formats and wireless PC synchronization for measurement, annotation and review.

For product details or to request a demonstration, visit AirGo Pad product page.

About SCANOLOGY

SCANOLOGY develops industrial 3D measurement solutions for manufacturing and engineering. Its products are used for 3D measurement, automated inspection, and quality control. They are trusted by more than 10,000 enterprises across over 70 countries and regions, serving industries such as aerospace, automotive, and heavy manufacturing.

SOURCE SCANOLOGY

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SKYWORTH Solar Announces Global Launch of Solavita as a Smart Microgrid Brand

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SHENZHEN, China, Oct. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — SKYWORTH Solar has officially announced the global launch of Solavita, its dedicated brand for smart microgrid solutions. Positioned strategically as “A Smart Microgrid Expert for Diverse Energy Scenarios,” Solavita consolidates the company’s extensive solution portfolio and service infrastructure under a unified global identity, building upon its rapidly expanding international footprint.

Addressing Grid Flexibility and Long-Term System Value

The launch comes as electricity systems face growing demands for flexibility. The International Energy Agency’s 2026 mid-year electricity update highlights the importance of flexible resources and more efficient use of infrastructure as renewable generation expands. For customers, the priorities vary by market: managing electricity costs, using more locally generated solar power, or maintaining essential loads where grid supply is unreliable.

“As renewable energy becomes more distributed, the long-term performance of the whole system becomes increasingly important,” said Fan Ruiwu, Chairman of SKYWORTH Solar. “We see that performance as the foundation of our international energy business. With Solavita, we are bringing our capabilities together around a common approach to solution development and service, while working with local partners to adapt delivery to each market. Our focus is on the value these systems provide throughout their life.”

Solutions for Different Energy Needs

To address the dual challenges of grid volatility and operational cost, Solavita engineers its systems around a core architectural philosophy prioritizing grid-forming stability, intelligent automation, cross-generation efficiency, and multi-tier security. Translating these technical principles into practical applications, the brand introduces a comprehensive solution matrix tailored to specific market demands.

For residential users, the SolaHome suite utilizes an advanced Home Energy Management System (HEMS) to seamlessly coordinate rooftop solar, battery storage, and flexible domestic loads like heat pumps and EV chargers. In markets with dynamic electricity tariffs, such as Germany, HEMS automates energy dispatch to capitalize on low-price periods. This practical value is evidenced by a recent residential installation in Jesteburg, Germany, combines 18.9 kW of rooftop solar with 20.48 kWh of battery storage. Solavita reports nearly €50 in electricity-price arbitrage benefits during the first month of dynamic-tariff operation.

Expanding beyond the home, the portfolio scales up with SolaBiz, which integrates distributed solar, commercial storage, and smart dispatch to help factories and retail spaces manage peak-demand costs and safeguard against grid disruptions.

For larger utility and off-grid demands, SolaMatrix delivers scalable, containerized storage and microgrid management focused on stabilizing renewable integration in weak grid environments.

Finally, ensuring energy access in highly mobile contexts, SolaGo offers plug-and-play balcony solar and portable power systems for outdoor activities and critical emergency backup, completing Solavita’s end-to-end coverage of modern energy applications.

Global Engineering Foundation and Ecosystem Delivery

To guarantee the reliable implementation and long-term asset value of these diverse solutions, SKYWORTH Solar underpins Solavita with a robust global engineering foundation.

On the technology front, the Smart Microgrid Technology Centre connects cutting-edge research with product engineering, supported by academic collaborations with Tianjin University and Hainan University. This pipeline is further strengthened by a comprehensive Haikou test platform—scheduled for commissioning by the end of 2026—to rigorously validate grid-connected, islanded, and grid-forming systems.

The InfraCosmos Digital Platform supports lifecycle data management, operational monitoring and fault identification. It connects system information with service and maintenance, helping teams monitor performance and respond to operating issues.

Beyond hardware and software, this foundation extends to flexible supply chain execution and strategic project delivery. Solavita employs F+D+EPC+O (Financing, Development, Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Operations) framework for large-scale, asset-light project coordination, alongside a localized PD2C cooperation model actively deployed in markets like Germany and Italy to ensure rapid, market-specific service.

These capabilities underpin Solavita’s positioning as a smart microgrid expert, connecting system development with local delivery and ongoing service. The aim is to make integrated energy systems practical to deploy and support in each market.

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SOURCE SKYWORTH Solar

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TCL Donates Ultra-Low-Power Display System to the Youth Olympic Village, Bringing Advanced Display Technology to Everyday Use

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The donation of the display, featuring TCL CSOT’s high-brightness Field Sequential Color technology, continues TCL’s long-term commitment to the African market

DAKAR, Senegal, Oct. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — TCL, a Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner, donated an ultra-low-power display system powered by solar energy to Université Amadou Mahtar Mbow (UAM) in Senegal. Delivering outdoor brightness at roughly half the power consumption of comparable displays, the system will serve as an information hub on the UAM campus, which will also serve as the Youth Olympic Village during the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.

Attendees at the donation ceremony included IOC President, Kirsty Coventry; UAM President, Professor Mababa Diagne; Senegal Higher Education Minister, Boubacar Camara; TCL Charity Ambassador, Jacky Heung; and General Manager of TCL Industries’ Middle East and Africa Marketing Division, Naimin Yang.

“Powered by TCL’s advanced display technology, this new display system will create new possibilities for our campus facilities and support development for both students and faculty,” said Professor Diagne.

Advanced Display Technology Delivers Best in Brightness and Efficiency

The donated system features a TCL CSOT 75-inch high-brightness Field Sequential Color (FSC) display capable of delivering 4,000-nit brightness at approximately 300W. By eliminating conventional color filters and generating color through the sequential switching of red, green and blue light, FSC technology enhances light utilization with transmittance over 15%.

The technology reflects TCL CSOT’s continued pursuit of improved display performance and energy efficiency, bringing advanced screens into everyday settings through TCL’s broader Screen Universe vision. Installed at UAM, the display will serve as an outdoor information hub, remaining bright and clear even in direct sunlight.

TCLArt and TCLYoung Champion Local Art and the Next Generation of Creators

Beyond technology, TCL also supports local culture in Dakar through its art-focused initiative, TCLArt. TCL participates in the Yeesal urban art initiative, which works with Senegalese artists and communities to create large-scale public murals. The project supports 43 artists, especially creators under 35, whose works draw inspiration from African athletes, cultural diversity, and youth aspirations. These murals will become permanent features of Dakar’s urban landscape, celebrating local creativity while reflecting TCL’s commitment to the next generation of creative talent through TCLYoung.

From Local Presence to Shared Growth: TCL Deepens its Footprint in Africa

Both the donation and Yeesal partnership build on a presence in Africa stretching back more than two decades. TCL first entered the African market in 2004. Today, TCL TVs and home appliances are sold in nearly 50 African countries across the continent, supported by six sales subsidiaries and three regional business units. TCL continues to strengthen its retail presence across the region, including with the opening of the first TCL brand experience store in Africa in Johannesburg, and the establishment of its own retail and distribution channel in Kenya.

Through its established business network and localized operations, TCL continues to build closer connections with African customers and consumers, combining global technological capabilities with a deeper understanding of local markets to better serve people across the region.

About TCL

Founded in 1981, TCL is dedicated to empowering smarter, healthier lifestyles through next-generation experiences.

Today, with 50 R&D centers and 47 manufacturing bases globally, TCL operates in over 160 countries and regions, reinforcing its position as a globally competitive smart technology brand. To further inspire greatness, TCL has become an official Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner in the Home Audiovisual Equipment and Home Appliances category.

https://www.tcl.com/global/en

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SOURCE TCL Technology Group Corporation

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