The week of June 25, 2025

Weekly Economic & Business Outlook

Latest Economic Outlook
  • The Fed likely will keep interest rates elevated in the long term as it tries to keep inflation under control.
  • An extended rise in labor costs could lead to a prolonged shift away from investments in labor.
  • There is a real risk that many lost jobs as a result of higher borrowing costs will be allowed to remain unfilled even as economic conditions normalize.
Latest Staffing Research
  • The staffing industry employed just under 2.0 million temporary and contract workers per week in the first quarter of 2025.
  • Employment decreased by 9% Q-to-Q, comparable to the average seasonal fourth-to-first quarter decline of 8.2% since 2008.
  • The first quarter year-to-year gap narrowed slightly by three points as the industry continues its gradual recovery.

The ASA Weekly Economic Business Outlook is for members of the American Staffing Association.

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This Week’s Economic Outlook
  • Average hourly earnings have struggled to keep pace with inflation.
  • Compensation will continue to outpace inflation given declining inflation, moderating labor market dynamics, and lower interest rates.
  • Staffing firms can keep offers competitive by accounting for inflation dynamics.
This Week’s Staffing Research
  • Elevated inflation and interest rates have increased compensation demands by workers.
  • A recent ASA Workforce Monitor® found many U.S. workers are still concerned about their finances.
  • Pessimism among workers regarding their finances has reduced labor churn.

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