Del Monte in the Can, Consumer Spending’s Tapped, & The IP is Out of Ideas

Del Monte Bankruptcy Kicks Off Episode 11 of The Octus Download

Jason Sanjana and Kevin Eckhart open this week’s episode with the story of Del Monte’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. They break down the drivers behind the collapse: rising freight costs, competition from private label brands, and private equity ownership that relied heavily on debt. The segment also covers the recent drop down transaction, the approval of DIP financing on day one, and a courtroom twist involving Judge Kaplan.

What Consumer Spending Data Is Telling Us in Mid 2025

Next up is a data focused deep dive into consumer spending trends. Octus Head of Credit Research Mark Fisher explains what the latest financial data reveals. Demand remains strong for low cost items under 20 dollars and cruise vacations, while high cost purchases like televisions, home furniture, and elective services are declining. Mark highlights how this shift toward value and experience driven spending reflects broader economic caution.

Spending on the Home Slows as the Post COVID Boom Fades

The conversation shifts to spending categories related to the home. Furniture, remodeling, and home decor are showing signs of weakness. Mark explains the impact on credit markets, including increased restructuring activity and a rise in liability management exercises. The trend is not about optimism for recovery, but about companies trying to buy time.

Hollywood IP Fatigue and the Summer Movie Faceoff

Then it is off to the movies. Kevin sat through the latest Jurassic Park sequel. Jason chose the Formula One film. One included Scarlett Johansson and a dying dinosaur in a Brooklyn park. The other featured Brad Pitt, real F2 cars, and a rare achievement in modern filmmaking: no phone breaks. A quick look at what connects and what falls flat in this year’s big budget storytelling.

Toy Hunting, Luxury Psychology, and the Return of Roundup

The episode closes with thoughts on consumer psychology. From 1,200 dollar sneakers to Labooboo toy hunts, Jason and Kevin explore the emotional logic behind single item spending. And yes, there is another unofficial sponsor. Roundup is back in the news, newly reformulated and still a symbol of both brand resilience and legal controversy.

Listen to Episode 11

New episodes of The Octus Download drop every other Tuesday across all major podcast platforms.

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Produced and edited by Emmy Award–winning producer Tanya Hubbard
A Production of The Octus Podcast Network