列国鉴丨记者观察：圣诞灯光下的美国“K型”经济裂痕

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the "K-shaped" economic recovery in the U.S., where high-income consumers continue to spend while middle and low-income consumers are forced to cut back on expenditures due to rising living costs [1][2]. Group 1: Consumer Behavior - During the holiday season, 62% of American consumers reported experiencing additional financial pressure due to holiday spending, with 87% planning to shop primarily at discount stores [2]. - Interviews reveal that many consumers are significantly reducing their holiday budgets, with individuals like James Figaro estimating a spending of $1,200, which is much lower than previous years [4]. - The chairman of Kroger noted that middle and low-income consumers are increasingly focused on the actual value of products, using coupons more frequently, and opting for store brands while cutting back on non-essential services [4]. Group 2: Economic Inequality - The Gini coefficient, a measure of income inequality, is at its second-highest historical level in the U.S., indicating a significant and persistent issue of income inequality [5]. - Economic changes since the 1980s, including globalization and tax policies favoring capital over labor, have contributed to the current distribution of wealth, leading to a decline in the purchasing power of middle-income families [5]. Group 3: Broader Economic Context - The U.S. economy shows growth primarily in sectors like finance, healthcare, and technology, but this growth is not reflective of the overall economic health, as manufacturing is contracting and unemployment is rising [8]. - A study indicates that if specific technology infrastructure investments are excluded, the actual GDP growth rate for the first half of 2025 could be as low as 0.1%, significantly below official figures [9]. Group 4: Political Implications - Economic anxiety is reshaping the political landscape, with rising living costs becoming a central issue for voters, influencing recent election outcomes [10]. - A poll indicated that 20% of self-identified Republicans believe the government is responsible for the current economic situation, highlighting a bipartisan concern over living costs [10]. Group 5: Social Issues - The article illustrates the stark contrast between the affluent and those struggling, with reports of long lines for free meals in New York, indicating that many working individuals are still unable to make ends meet [12][13]. - Data from the New York City homeless coalition shows that over 102,000 people are using shelters each night, with millions relying on food assistance programs, underscoring the severity of the economic divide [12].