Japanese stores annually launch 'Fukubukuro' or 'mystery bags' at the start of the New Year, spurring a shopping frenzy. This year, the 'guaranteed principal' variant is drawing significant interest. Shoppers purchase these bags without knowing their contents, but with the guarantee that they'll get at least what they paid for if not more. The trend seems to be a hit, bringing both excitement and assurance to shoppers amid an uncertain economic climate.

Fukubukuro, a bag filled with unknown random contents, is a traditional way Japanese stores kick off the New Year's sales. It's often seen as a gamble, but the appeal this year of the 'guaranteed principal' variant reflects consumers' desire for financial security amidst ongoing market volatility. This trend is indicative of wider societal attitudes in Japan, where balancing thrifty diligence with occasional indulgence is valued.

In the US or EU, similar concepts exist during major sale periods like Black Friday or Boxing Day, where mystery boxes or grab bags become popular. However, the 'guaranteed principal' concept is seen less often, as consumers in these regions often prefer the thrill of a higher risk, higher reward purchase.