For those in the know, metrics like a country's GDP, CPI, and PMI can suggest where the economy is heading.

But when it comes to really gauging the health of a nation's economy and predicting its future, experts look at all sorts of obscure and outlandish factors.

From the Big Mac Index to the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover Indicator, read on to discover some of the most peculiar signs of economic fortune or failure. All dollar amounts in US dollars, unless otherwise stated.