Updated: Fri Dec. 18 2009 16:51:10

ctvcalgary.ca

A new national survey says when it comes to spending this holiday season Albertans are willing to spend the most.

The Scotiabank survey shows Canadians, on average, plan to spend between $800 and $1400 on holiday purchases. Albertanas plan to spend the most with their average coming in at $1087.

"It bodes well because spending drives business and business, both large and small, drive jobs. So I think that is a positive sign," says Darryl Dunn from Scotiabank.

Economists say aggressive pricing, record-low interest rates and renewed job stability is creating an air of optimism this holiday season.

"When you look at where we are compared tot his time last year, people were worried about their jobs and the future and now things are a lot more stable," says Dunn.

That's good news for malls that faced a drop in customers at the beginning of the month because of bad weather.

At Market Mall, the number of shoppers is now up compared to this time last year and so too is the spending.

"I have been spending more. I got a new job so I have a little more cash," says shopper Vito Borreli.