The era prior to our current political impasse was a happier one for most Thais. Shopping centres and community malls across the country were busy. Long queues at big-name restaurants were a familiar sight. Home and vehicle sales dramatically increased, mostly financed through loans. Many of those who suffered worst when the baht crashed - mostly company employees and small business owners - are now aged over 45. But for today's young business owners and anyone who has joined the workforce in the past 17 years, spending looks far safer than it did two decades ago, either through savings or loans.