What should financial marketers talk about this month? Our monthly roundup has you covered with timely topics for blog posts, social media campaigns, and other marketing ideas.
The holiday spending season is officially upon us (and no, you aren’t imagining things; holiday shopping starts earlier and earlier each year). This year, the average consumer plans to spend $845 on gifts, entertainment, and travel this holiday season.
The angle
Help take the sting out of rising costs with tips on how to cut down on spending.
While gifts make up most of holiday spending, don’t forget the other cost creeps. With high gas prices, travel will also be more expensive this year.
Consider a listicle-style blog to share practical information your audience can quickly consume between holiday happy hours.
The era of angry mobs attacking storefronts for doorbuster deals on Black Friday may be ending — at least for some consumers.
Increasingly, consumers (particularly millennials and Gen Z) are shying away from major sales holidays. Last year, an event in Australia dubbed “Green Friday” hit the scene and has been building momentum. In the U.S., retailers like Patagonia famously opt out of sales — and even close down — for Black Friday.
The angle
Consumers aren’t going to stop holiday shopping but are increasingly looking for ways to shop with more purpose.
Heart-centered holidays like “Giving Tuesday” are rising in popularity as consumers shift their focus from discounts to philanthropy.
Consider giving your audience a unique, money-saving take on Black Friday by discussing some of these alternative movements like Green Friday or Giving Tuesday.
The Health Insurance Marketplace officially opens for enrollment in November. Folks have until December 15th to enroll for January 1st coverage, while the official cutoff for the year (without qualifying for a special enrollment period) is January 15th.
The angle
During the Great Resignation, many people left their traditional jobs, so some of your audience may be entering the health insurance market for the first time. Shopping and comparing insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act is fairly different from what they’re used to. Costs are often higher, and they need some guidance.
Healthcare costs are also rising, so this is a good opportunity to discuss money-saving tactics like adding a health savings account.
Many people are in a giving mood during the holiday season. You can write about tax-efficient ways to donate to charities, the impact of charitable giving, and how individuals and businesses can get involved in philanthropic activities.
The angle
Tax benefits: Explain the tax benefits associated with charitable donations, such as deductions and credits. Describe how strategic giving can lead to financial advantages for individuals and businesses.
Estate planning: Discuss how charitable giving can be integrated into estate planning, emphasizing methods like charitable trusts and bequests.
Impact on personal finances: Explore the emotional and psychological benefits of charitable giving. Discuss studies or real-life examples demonstrating how giving can enhance overall well-being and financial satisfaction.
With the increase in online shopping during the holiday season, it’s crucial to talk about digital wallets, online payment security, and ways to protect financial information when making online transactions.
The angle
Explain common online payment scams and phishing techniques that consumers should know.
Provide examples of recent online scams to highlight potential risks.
Offer practical advice on how to identify phishing emails and fraudulent websites.