Young Americans plan major Halloween expenses this year despite higher chocolate prices affecting shopping habits. A new Empower study of 2,000 Americans shows Gen Z will spend an average of $435 on Halloween, while millennials plan $522 compared to the national average of $296. Over half of respondents (57%) say rising chocolate prices are changing their candy purchasing decisions. Despite inflation concerns affecting 52% of shoppers, 51% still consider Halloween a favorite holiday. Young shoppers increasingly use AI for deals and costume ideas, with 25% of millennials and 24% of Gen Z utilizing technology for Halloween planning. (Story URL)