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 edit
References edit
- ^ 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. Archived from the original on 2 March 2011. Retrieved 1 February 2011.
External links edit
- Alan Greenspan's Underwear Drawer January 1, 2008
- Blue Chip, White Cotton: What Underwear Says About the Economy By Ylan Q. Mui Washington Post Staff Writer Monday, August 31, 2009
- May 25, 2011 Unemployment Rate Hits 9.7 Percent As Economy Sheds 216,000 Jobs In August By Arthur Delaney
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