Consumers Embrace 'No Buy' Trends amid Growing Economic Uncertainty

Amid rising economic pressures and renewed inflation concerns, a growing number of Americans are turning to social media-driven savings strategies such as “no buy,” “low buy,” and “slow buy” to manage their finances. The trend is gaining traction as many brace for a potential downturn sparked by recent tariff policies.

According to a new Intuit Credit Karma survey of over 2,000 U.S. adults, 83% said they would cut back on non-essential spending if their financial situation worsens. These spending challenges, popularized on platforms like TikTok, encourage users to limit or eliminate discretionary purchases such as clothes, books, and entertainment.

Couple doing budgeting | Source: Pexels

“No buy 2025,” for example, advocates for cutting out all non-essential items for the year. In contrast, “low buy” and “slow buy” promote more mindful consumer habits, including delaying purchases through tactics like the 48-hour rule. The goal, experts say, is to reduce “doom spending” fueled by economic anxiety.

Eugenio Aleman, chief economist at Raymond James, warned of the unavoidable impact of new tariffs on prices. “Consumers are going to have to pay for the increase in prices… The alternative is to reduce consumption, especially in discretionary items.”

Gallup recently reported that 53% of U.S. adults feel their financial situation is deteriorating, while 57% are worried about maintaining their standard of living. A separate Bankrate study found that 43% of adults said money now negatively affects their mental health.

Couple doing budgeting | Source: Pexels

While financial trends on social media can offer temporary relief, experts emphasize long-term planning. “There is no substitute for practicing good long-term habits,” said Daniel Milan of Cornerstone Financial Services. “Sit down and pencil out what you actually are spending.”