The Elmo/McDonald’s/Chex Mix Economic Pain Matrix
Not all economic indicators can be quantified.
When it comes to the U.S. economy, there are statistics aplenty. Ordinary economic indicators abound. Historical trends stretch as far as the AI-assisted eye can analyze.
Though telling the future with tea leaves seems less complicated, at least these economic markers are measurable, observable, and even predictable at times — minus the odd black swan incident.
Not all economic markers are as straightforward. Three recent viral economic moments are worth noting, even if they are difficult to quantify.
“Response to Elmo’s ‘checking in’ post underscores U.S. mental health crisis,” was the perfect, politically unassailable take at Axios on January 29, 2024.
“‘Sesame Street’ favorite Elmo’s wellness check-in post on X asking ‘How is everybody doing?’ has been met with thousands of responses this week,” began Rebecca Falconer for Axios. “The big picture: Many made clear in the comments section that they’re not doing so well — with some citing being laid off, feeling tired or noting they’re ‘depressed and broke.’”