(BPT) - Economists have long looked for signals in unexpected places. During tough times, Leonard Lauder popularized the lipstick index — the idea that small luxuries rise when bigger purchases are out of reach. 1 We are introducing a new kind of measure: the Going Rate. How we give, tip, and celebrate offers another lens into the economy alongside traditional data points. A new Empower study shows that generosity can be a surprisingly powerful economic indicator. It's one gauge of how households balance tradition and financial well-being.

According to Empower research, Americans say inflation and tariffs are visible in gift prices. Consumer concern is showing up as "gift fatigue" and no-gift policies. Confidence or caution reveals itself in tipping habits and allowances.

"While most

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