Your Labubu obsession is economic data

Ever notice you're gravitating towards smaller treats lately?

Blind boxes (we see that labubu haul 👀), thrift finds, little pick-me-ups instead of big purchases.

There's actually an economic reason behind that shift… and it's showing up in data that goes way beyond inflation numbers.

This week's newsletter breaks down what's behind that feeling, what new tariffs could mean for your wallet, and why economists are watching your shopping cart more closely than you realize.

Here’s what’s inside:

• June 2025 inflation breakdown

• Tariffs have crept their way into shipping costs

• Your labubu obsession = sign of a slowdown?

• A solo date list for a peaceful reset

 Hot on the Internet

A new June CPI report shows U.S. consumer prices rose 0.3% month-over-month, which is the biggest jump since January. That pushed annual inflation to 2.7%, with core inflation at 2.9%. The increase is mostly driven by goods like furniture, clothing, and groceries. Many of which are now impacted by new tariffs.

So why are the headlines saying inflation is “cooling”?

It's because they're looking at the year-over-year trend, which has improved. But if you focus on just the last 30 days, prices are clearly rising again. That’s why your usual grocery run might cost more, even if your cart looks the same.

👉 What that means for you: Even though the numbers sound better, your money still isn’t going as far. Market trips feel more expensive, your dollar feels lighter, and your grocery bags keep getting smaller.

🧠 What you can do now (without couponing everything):

Shift your go-to grocery staples
Prices for processed snacks, frozen meals, and baked goods are rising fastest. Swapping in shelf-stable basics (like oats, rice, canned proteins) can stretch your meals without feeling like a downgrade.

Time your bulk purchases
Tariff-driven inflation hits imports hardest. If you know you’ll need certain household or wardrobe items, buying now might save you from higher Q3 prices.

Maximize your cash-back cards
If you use a card with rotating categories (like groceries or gas), activate those perks each quarter. It’s an easy way to reclaim up to 5% on stuff you already buy.

Track cost-per-use, not just the price tag
For clothes, home goods (and even food) consider how often you’ll use it. A $40 item worn weekly is a better value than a $15 item worn twice.

Set alerts for the big stuff
Use tools like Honey, CamelCamelCamel, or Google Alerts to track price dips on big purchases. Especially helpful as tariffs drive short-term spikes that may ease later this year.

Reality Check

Tariffs might sound like a policy issue, but they show up on your receipts too.

Think: higher prices on goods from China like electronics, clothes, and furniture. Basically anything that takes a few weeks to arrive. With the return of Trump-era tariffs, many sellers are using “delivery duty unpaid” shipping. That means companies like FedEx or UPS pay the import fees upfront, then send the bill to you later.

Some shoppers are getting hit with surprise charges weeks after buying (or even returning) an item. The details are often buried in the fine print, so unless you know what to look for, it’s easy to miss.

👉 What to know:

• Check if your order uses “DDU” (delivery duty unpaid)

• Watch for vague or missing shipping terms at checkout

• If you're buying from overseas, ask the seller if duties are included

These fees aren’t always obvious, but they’re becoming more common as tariff policies shift.

Cheat Sheet Corner

Your labubus and baby tees might be recession red flags

Economists aren’t just watching interest rates and jobs reports. They’re also paying attention to what we’re buying for fun. Blind boxes, a resurgence in low-cost fashion staples like baby tees, and an uptick in secondhand shopping are showing up as unexpected indicators of consumer pullback.

These trends often pop up when people are feeling financially uncertain but still want a little joy or self-expression. Think: small treats over big purchases, cheaper fashion instead of new splurges, and DIY-style fixes rather than buying new. Is your recent hyperfixation one of them? »

Solo date ideas ✨

Joy doesn’t always need company. Here’s a quick reminder that solo time can be just as fulfilling as social plans.

I made this list of simple solo date ideas that can help you reconnect with yourself without needing a reason.

You don’t have to wait for the weekend, the friend group chat, or a special occasion. Sometimes the best way to enjoy life is by slowing down and spending time with yourself.

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