Forget Lipstick... The Economy's New Warning Sign Might Be a Squishy Dumpling

Americans spent $297 million on squishy toys in the first half of 2026, four times the previous year's spending, suggesting a new 'lipstick indicator' for economic stress. As consumer sentiment hits record lows with expensive housing, groceries, and borrowing costs, consumers are shifting to affordable small luxuries like $6 squishy dumplings rather than cutting spending entirely. While the craze may simply be a passing fad, it reflects how people seek affordable happiness during financial uncertainty.