2023届高考英语三轮复习·冲刺押题·外刊阅读理解训练 (52)

2023届高考英语三轮复习·冲刺押题 外刊阅读理解训练52 ——改编自Smart phones make us spend more USA today 【文章】 The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and gift-giving. However, overspending during this period has always been a problem. Recently, the increased use of mobile payment apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay may be contributing to the trend. These payment methods allow users to quickly purchase items in stores or online, making it easier to separate them from their money. Additionally, merchants are targeting consumers directly through social media ads, which are particularly popular with millennials and Gen Z. Another factor that encourages overspending during the holidays is point-of-sale loans. Instead of paying upfront, consumers can pay for purchases over several weeks or months, often referred to as "layaway without the wait." While this seems like a convenient option, these loans can cause people to spend more than they intended. According to Affirm, consumers boosted their average order by around 90% when offered one of their loans. Schulz warns shoppers to research and understand the fine print surrounding these loans to avoid surprises later on. According to a study from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, consumers who use mobile wallets tend to spend 2.4% more on a typical transaction and increase the frequency of transactions by 24%. This highlights the importance of having a budget and shopping list before starting holiday shopping. Tracking regular income and expenses and maintaining a list of purchases needed can aid in avoiding splurging and unplanned expenses. Credit Karma's Dana Marineau stresses that small purchases made frequently can add up and negatively impact overall financial health. Shoppers should be cautious during the holiday season when bombarded with enticing sales offers and deals. Remembering to stay within budget and researching loans can help people avoid unnecessary debt and financial difficulties during what sho