Mastercard announced on December 16, 2021, the results of its holiday shopping survey, which shows that consumers prefer online shopping and gift cards that give back this season. According to the survey, 56% of shoppers are continuing to prioritize online shopping this holiday season, citing waiting in lines, finding parking, and items being out of stock as primary reasons.

The survey also shows that nearly half of shoppers say they’re more likely to give gift cards this year, and two thirds say they are focused on charitable and cause-related giving. Gift cards are the most popular gift for parents/grandparents, siblings, other relatives, and best friends. Twenty percent of shoppers would like a gift that gives back to a good cause this year more so than in the past.

Mastercard is providing a series of passion-led gift cards and launching a Priceless Experience auction that deliver a differentiated and meaningful gifting experience this holiday season that gives back. This includes the Priceless Planet Mastercard Passion gift card, which donates $2.00 to Conservation International for each card purchased, and the Wildlife Impact gift card, which donates $1.00 to Conservation International for each card purchased.

The survey was conducted among 4,000 respondents among representative populations across the US and Canada. All respondents were 18+, use a credit card, and were likely to shop during the 2021 holiday season. Research was conducted between November 23rd and December 1st.