The US economy is experiencing a "selective recession" where lower-income Americans are struggling due to rising costs and dwindling savings, while upper-income consumers remain unaffected. Inflation, although cooling down, has significantly impacted the purchasing power of lower and middle-income individuals. With the pandemic savings having been depleted for most Americans, recession fears are now growing as the job market weakens and interest rates remain high.
"The utility monster is feeling great, average happiness is at an all-time high, but if you talk to anyone on the street, they seem so glum!"