• U.S. House Speaker John Boehner had to give in to attacks and compromise on the payroll tax cut extension with Democrats. The move makes way for passage of the bill, but sets up another battle in two months when the extension expires. The frustrating negotiation was just another example for voters as to how deadlocked the congress is on seemingly straightforward legislation. From Bloomberg News.
• Holiday retail sales are predicted to be up almost 4% over last year in the U.S., as weather cooperates and the job outlooks brightens ever so slightly. Consumer spending news out of the U.K. looks positive for the holiday season, as well. From Bloomberg News.
• Electronic retailer Best Buy did its best to play the “Grinch” as the company told customers that some orders placed as early as the week after Thanksgiving will not be shipped for Christmas. Price cuts made in online pricing to compete with Amazon and Walmart pushed demand for some products beyond the company’s ability to deliver. The number of cancellations is probably not material, but after a tough year for the company it’s news they don’t need. From Bloomberg News.