Group 1 - The term "K-shaped economy" describes the significant disparity in economic recovery among different social classes in the U.S., where some experience rapid recovery while others face stagnation or decline [2][7]. - In Seattle, the median household income has risen from $180,000 in 2019 to approximately $230,000 by 2025, while the median home price has surged to $1.6 million, highlighting the growing wealth gap [2][3]. - The consumption patterns of Coca-Cola reflect this economic divide, with sales growth driven by high-end products, while low-income consumers are increasingly shopping at discount stores [5][8]. Group 2 - Fast food chains like McDonald's are witnessing a decline in low-income customer visits, prompting them to introduce more special offers to attract this demographic [5][6]. - The automotive market shows a similar trend, with new car sales averaging over $50,000, while loan defaults and repossessions are rising among lower-income consumers [6][7]. - Airlines and hotel chains report a growing demand for premium services, with Delta Airlines noting that first-class and business-class revenues are expected to surpass economy class [6][7]. Group 3 - The economic policies post-pandemic, including unconventional monetary policies, have exacerbated wealth inequality, benefiting the affluent while low-income families face rising costs [7][10]. - The spending habits of the top 10% of income earners account for 49.7% of total consumer spending, the highest since 1989, indicating a growing reliance on this demographic for economic growth [9][10]. - The current economic climate has led to a pessimistic outlook among the general population regarding employment and the labor market, with concerns about long-term structural inequality [10].