The K-shaped economy of the rich doing fine and everyone else struggling is back — and it could mean a rocky 2026

The American economy is tipping away from low-wage workers once again.

PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images

• The K-shaped economy has returned, with gaps widening between high and low-income Americans.
• Higher earners see steadier opportunities, while lower-income households face cooler prospects.
• Some economists are warning that this uneven growth could threaten economic stability in 2026.

The post-pandemic era marked by growing wages and opportunities for lower-income Americans has flipped around.