Navigating A New Norm
Most state governments have mandated that their residents quarantine in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19. These policies have been well intended to keep citizens safe, but they have not been without consequence. As it pertains to retail, every sector has been impacted differently.
Nearly 25% of retailers and restaurants tracked by the S&P are rated with a 50% chance of defaulting on their debts. In contrast, the S&P 500’s Retail-Wholesale sector gained 18% over the past month.
As reigns of restriction begin to loosen in the coming months, it won’t mean an immediate panacea for all retailers who are allowed to reopen. Most retailers will have to adapt strategies to overcome phased re-openings with occupancy limits, mass avoidance of public places, and consumer economic strife for months, if not years, to come.
