While economists publish forecasts, Gen Z relies on memes and informal signals to assess economic conditions. Klarna, Depop fashion trends, and the quality of fake lashes are some of these indicators.
A New Approach to Economic Indicators
Young Americans have begun noticing economic instability through cultural changes. The emergence of services like Klarna offering 'buy now, pay later' for everyday items, such as lunch, raises concerns among them.
Memes and Their Cultural Significance
People are creating humorous memes that reflect economic worries. Observing changes on platforms like Depop and TikTok, young people identify possible economic downturns through price drops and the appearance of atypical items.
Data and Real Economic Dangers
Studies show a decline in economic confidence among young people. Surveys by Deutsche Bank and the Conference Board confirm their concerns, while searches for 'recession' continue to rise.
Although memes and humorous predictions may seem trivial, they underscore the growing concern of today's generation about economic difficulties, supported not only by cultural observations but also real statistical data.