Nightlife: The forgotten new economic stimulus

We can use nightlife to gauge economic growth. More night life could indicate we have disposable income, hopefully got through hard work not corruption or deals. [iStockphoto]

The owl is not alone at night. Many nightspots become active after nightfall. We hear regular complaints over loud music at night. Rarely during the day time.

In most towns, certain streets are known for nightlife. The problem is its association with negatives like prostitution, drugs and alcohol. Economists probably see things differently. Such life extends consumption, a major contribution to economic growth, often more than investment.