Bike Fatality Rates, Marine Corps Ads And Hot Waitresses Are Now Economic Indicators? Here Are The Most Unusual And Bizarre Ones Yet

When you think of economic indicators, things like the stock market, inflation or unemployment rates probably come to mind. But did you know that the number of bike fatalities or even the “hotness” of waitresses could be telling us something about the economy? 

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That’s right, some of the most unusual and downright bizarre things can supposedly predict whether the economy is on the rise or headed for a downturn. Here's a look at some of the strangest economic indicators out there.

1. Bike Fatality Rates

UK’s Department for Transport report showed that more people start using bikes during recessions to save money, which unfortunately leads to more accidents and cycling deaths. This increase in fatalities is a sad sign of tough economic times. Once the economy recovers and people go back to using cars or public transport, the number of bike-related deaths tends to decrease.

2. Marine Corps Ads

The tone of Marine Corps commercials can actually hint at where the economy is headed. When times are tough, more people consider joining the military due to fewer job opportunities. When this happens, the Marines often ramp up the intensity of their ads, making them look tougher and more challenging to filter out weaker recruits. So, if you notice Marine ads getting grittier, it might be a sign that the economy isn't in the best shape.

3. Hot Waitresses

The “hot waitress” theory suggests that when the economy is struggling, attractive people who might otherwise have higher-paying jobs turn to positions like waitressing to make ends meet. So, if you see more stunning servers at your local restaurant, they're taking jobs they wouldn't normally need to consider.

4. Unclaimed Corpses

The rise in unclaimed corpses is a grim sign that the economy is in bad shape and that people are struggling financially. More people are dying alone or their families can't afford burial costs. 

For instance, despite having one of the highest average incomes in Canada, the cost of living crisis in the Greater Toronto Area has caused a noticeable rise in the number of unclaimed bodies.

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5. Baby Diaper Rash

When families are struggling financially, they try to save money any way they can, including using fewer diapers or buying cheaper brands. Unfortunately, this can result in more diaper rashes for babies. 

A rise in sales of diaper rash cream can indicate that families are cutting back on necessities, which could point to a broader economic downturn.

6. Dog Theft

When money is tight, some people resort to stealing valuable dog breeds that can be sold for a profit. The increase in dognapping isn't just a sign of more crime; it's a reflection of financial desperation. In the U.S., the years after the Global Financial Crisis saw a big rise in reported dog thefts.

7. Baked Beans Sales

Baked beans may not seem like they have much to do with the economy, but their sales can be quite telling. During recessions, people tend to buy more canned goods like baked beans because they're cheap and easy to store. If baked bean sales are spiking, people are tightening their belts and preparing for tough financial times.

8. Necktie Styles

The way men wear their ties can tell us a lot about the economy. When times are good, some observed more men wearing bold, colorful ties as they feel confident and secure in their jobs. But when the economy is shaky, they stick with more conservative, neutral-colored ties to avoid standing out too much and looking immature.

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