If people are going to be broke or out of work, at least the cost of buying goods and services should drop, even if no one can afford them. To some degree, that is what a recession is all about. Cheap stuff can't be sold.
According to Bloomberg, "The cost of living in the U.S. probably fell in November by the most in six decades." The news service reports that consumer prices probably dropped 1.2%.
While it may appear cruel that people cannot buy things when they finally become "affordable," it may be one of the maps out of the recession. If prices keep dropping and housing and employment bottom, the consumer could start spending again. That spending could get aggressive.
The consumer has dragged the country into this recession. Consumer spending is supposed to be about 60% of the U.S. GDP.
Now, the consumer has to spend us out of the downturn. Falling prices for the things he needs, whether that is gas, clothing, or a new car, may just do the trick. Even the pinched can afford goods that have moved ludicrously low.
Douglas A. McIntyre is an editor at 247wallst.com.
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