Holiday spending is expected to rise this year despite pressure on pocketbooks from higher energy costs, according to a study released Wednesday.

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On average, holiday shoppers will spend $681 this season, compared with $655 last year, The NPD Group predicted in a study. In addition, only 24 percent of 2,100 consumers surveyed said rising gas and oil prices would have a significant impact on their holiday spending, NPD said.

The Internet will continue to be a popular shopping destination, with 37 percent of respondents planning to buy goods online, according to the study. That compares with 67 percent who said they would head to discount stores such as Target and Wal-Mart Stores.

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