The news

Understanding productivity.
The ups and downs of the unemployment situation presented themselves in a recent BLS report on productivity. Productivity, as measured by the output per hour of all persons, surged in Q2 2009. Analysts will continue to watch this to determine if the surge means increased production or if it is a result of recent cost containment measures companies have taken.
our analysis

New Supreme Court Justice.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor took the judicial oath on August 8, becoming the first Hispanic and third woman to serve on the Supreme Court in United States history. Justice Sotomayor was confirmed by the Senate in a relatively calm confirmation process on Capitol Hill by a vote which included Senators from both sides of the aisle.
our analysis

Update on healthcare legislation.
Congressional leaders left for summer recess without passing a bill for healthcare reform. This should allow extra time for elected officials to return to their home districts and get feedback from constituents to help ensure any proposed reform meets the needs and concerns of voters. A crucial point of contention in the proposed health care system changes is funding new programs while ensuring costs are controlled with consideration of the federal deficit.
our analysis

CEO insight

“Most people are feeling that the job market at least is not getting worse – especially in areas like IT and accounting, where we see job growth at the national level and we see job seekers more confident about their opportunities going forward.”
– Tig Gilliam, CEO, Adecco Group North America
PBS Nightly Business Report, 08/07/09