Did the McRib Predict Bitcoin’s Surge to 100K?

The Origins of the McRib Effect

As a seasoned financial analyst with over two decades of experience navigating the complexities of global markets, I find the McRib effect both intriguing and amusing. While it may seem far-fetched to some, the seemingly unexplainable correlation between the availability of this barbecue sandwich and market performance is a testament to human nature’s penchant for finding patterns, even in the most unlikely places.


The idea arose as Nick Maggiulli, COO of Ritholtz Wealth Management, noticed that from 2010 to 2023, the S&P 500 typically had a daily return of 0.1% when the McRib sandwich was on sale, compared to only 0.04% when it wasn’t. This observation sparked some lighthearted discussions about whether the sandwich might affect market performance.

Bitcoin’s Dance with the McRib

In a playful examination of the crypto market, some fans have observed that Bitcoin’s value has sometimes increased during McDonald’s McRib promotions. For example, in both 2017 and 2021, Bitcoin experienced growth exceeding 200% within 90 days following the McRib’s return to menus.

Correlation vs. Causation: A Tasty Illusion

While these observations are amusing, they underscore a critical analytical principle: correlation does not imply causation. The McRib’s return typically coincides with the year’s end—a period often associated with favorable market conditions due to factors like the “Santa Claus Rally.” Therefore, attributing market movements to the availability of a sandwich overlooks the myriad influences at play.

The Power of Memes in Market Narratives

The crypto community, known for its embrace of memes, finds such correlations entertaining. The McRib-Bitcoin connection serves as a humorous reminder of the human tendency to seek patterns, even where none exist. As Ben Lilly of Jarvis Labs remarked, focusing on such tenuous links might stem from market boredom, leading analysts to grasp at straws for explanations.

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2024-12-06 13:30