Men's underwear index
The men's underwear index (MUI) is an economic index that can supposedly detect the beginnings of a recovery during an economic slump. The premise is that men's underwear are a necessity in normal economic times and sales remain stable. During a severe downturn, demand for these goods changes as new purchases are deferred.[1] Hence, men's purchasing habits for underwear (and that of their spouses on their behalf) is thought to be a good indicator of discretionary spending for consumption at large especially during turnaround periods.
This indicator is noted for being followed by former Federal Reserve Chairman, Alan Greenspan.[2]
See also
References
- ^ Mui, Ylan Q. (31 August 2009). "Blue Chip, White Cotton: What Underwear Says About the Economy". The Washington Post. Retrieved 1 February 2011.
- ^ Brush, Michael. "How your undies track the recession". MSN Money. Retrieved 1 February 2011.
External links
- http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=17759341
- http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Investing/CompanyFocus/how-your-undies-track-the-recession.aspx
- http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/08/30/AR2009083002761.html?hpid=topnews
- http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/09/04/unemployment-hits-97-as-e_n_277218.html
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