The week of July 9, 2026

Weekly Economic & Business Outlook

Latest Economic Outlook
  • Payrolls rose only 57,000, but low unemployment suggests slower job growth alone doesn't indicate a weak labor market.
  • Most recent job gains came from health care, government, and transportation, while other sectors contributed relatively little.
  • Broader hiring across industries is needed for a more resilient, balanced labor market and sustained staffing recovery.
Latest Staffing Research
  • Despite economic challenges, more staffing firms are reporting growth in total revenue and gross margins.
  • Staffing margin growth has lagged behind sales growth as cost pressures and competition continue to compress margins.
  • Get benchmarks like these and more by registering for the 2Q2026 ASA Quarterly Survey, opening July 9.

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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