Men's underwear index
Introduction The '''men's underwear index''' ('''MUI''') is an economic index that can supposedly detect the beginnings of a recovery during an economic slump. The premise is that men's underwear are a necessity in normal economic times and sales remain stable. During a severe downturn, demand for these goods changes as new purchases are deferred. Hence, men's purchasing habits for underwear (and that of their spouses on their behalf) is thought to be a good indicator of discretionary spending for consumption at large especially during turnaround periods. This indicator is noted for being followed by former Federal Reserve Chairman, Alan Greenspan.
See also *Big Mac index*Hemline index*Lipstick index
References
External links *  Alan Greenspan's Underwear Drawer January 1, 2008*  Blue Chip, White Cotton: What Underwear Says About the Economy By Ylan Q. Mui Washington Post Staff Writer Monday, August 31, 2009*  May 25, 2011 Unemployment Rate Hits 9.7 Percent As Economy Sheds 216,000 Jobs In August By Arthur Delaney