adapted from photograph by Nuno Barreto
Who needs tabloids when there’s reality? From Business Insider – a list of 32 indicators, indexes and trends that should serve as warning signs of a dwindling global economy.
Examples: The GOOD: More reptiles will survive as fewer Americans spend on crocodile and alligator handbags. The BAD: More babies will suffer from diaper rash as parents cut back on costs. The UGLY: Men will buy less underwear. Well, in fairness, that could also be filed in the good column depending on one’s perspective on energy conservation and aesthetics. On a serious note, while these indicators are based predominantly on western statistics—the overriding message is—when times are hard, people all over the world must make tough choices. It’s worth remembering however, that there are people so poor, that these materialistic indicators could equally serve as advisories for a much-needed reappraisal of how lifestyle changes can bring about change for everyone in the long run. Over-consumption affects the entire planet. Dem bones…
The 32 Sexiest, Tastiest, Creepiest And Craziest Economic Indicators In The World
The indicators include: Unclaimed Corpse Indicator, The First Date Indicator,Mosquito Bite Indicator, Consumer Consumption Of Beer Index, The Plastic Surgery Indicator, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover Indicator, The High Heel Index, Baked Bean Sales Indicator, Big Mac Index, Skinny Tie Width Indicator, Japanese Haircut Indicator, Bike Fatality Rates, Buttered Popcorn Index, Car Salesman Closing Time Indicator, Coupon Redemption Index, Happy Meal Indicator, Baby Diaper Rash Indicator, Skyscraper Boom Indicator, Speed Contractors Return Calls, Hemline Index, Cardboard Box Leading Indicator, Alligator Population Index, Men’s Underwear Index, Year Of The Dragon Indicator, Aspirin and Tylenol Usage, Latvian Hooker Index, Google Trend Index, Lipstick Index, Hot Waitress and Waiter Index.
About the Index
With the second revision to GDP just days away, economists are looking for any macro data that supports their view that growth continues to moderate.
And some may just turn to the morgue. We’ll explain later.
There are many odd indicators that are arguably more reliable than some of the data that we get from the government.
Many investors use them to guide their views on the economy. And sometimes, they are spot on.
Visit Business Insider for details
Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/alternative-economic-indicators-2012-5#ixzz1xX4Q40so