What happened
Economists have long viewed the post-pandemic economy as "K"-shaped, but that consensus has now evaporated, according to a CNBC report published on August 29, 2026. The report highlights that economists are now debating whether the economy is shaped like a "C" or an "E," indicating a lack of agreement on the current economic trajectory.
Why it matters
The shift away from a unified "K"-shaped view signals growing uncertainty among economists about the direction of the economy. This disagreement could have implications for policy decisions, market expectations, and public understanding of economic conditions.