The Underground Economy

     The underground economy involves the exchange of goods and services that are usually hidden from official view. Underground economies are usually found in places like Brazil or in southern Europe. Underground activity in the past year totaled almost as much as $2 trillion. This "hidden" economy can be beneficial because consumer spending in the short term is boosting the economy. It can be detrimental because the workers who aren't on the books don't get social security or health benefits. These jobs run the risk of getting exploited with lower pay or not being paid at all.