Despite economic concerns and inflation, U.S. consumers showcased remarkable resilience this Black Friday, spending a record $11.8 billion online. This figure marks a significant 9.1% increase in online spending compared to last year, driven in part by the enhanced use of AI technology in shopping. While in-store traffic also saw an uptick, many shoppers reported feeling underwhelmed by available deals, reflecting a cautious approach to spending. Overall, Black Friday sales increased by 4.1%, signaling a complex shopping landscape where consumers are eager for discounts amidst financial pressures.