Is it a risky strategy for retailers to have both tighter inventory and fewer promotions over the holidays? Yes.

It's been the more affluent consumer that's driving retail.

We definitely see a leveling off in sales growth this year. However, there are a number of positive factors -- such as improvements in disposable income, increased corporate spending and relatively low unemployment -- that will help maintain sales.

Our research shows that the Indian population tends to spend more and save less versus Chinese consumers who save up to 40 percent of their income.

It's going to have a significant impact on their costs.

It will be a challenging holiday season for most retailers, but many have back-up distribution plans and inventories that will help them cope with the effects of Hurricane Katrina..

We've had much debate here about the holiday season, ... Higher gas prices have mostly taken more money away from low-income consumers.

The home improvement sector really benefited in Florida last year. We're a very self-reliant country and people start fixing their places very soon.

As the China stock market creates more wealth, you'll see more. There are 230 millionaires in China, and they're adding more every day.