Toward A Part-Time Economy

The BLS employment reports underline a continuing trend toward hiring more part-time workers. The reason is one word: Obamacare. Starting in 2014 employers must offer employees health care or pay a fine. But this applies only to employees working 30+ hours a week. The solution? Replace as much of your full-time workforce with part-timers as you can. Employers in the food service and hospitality industry like Darden, Apollo, CKE and Pillar are actively making these moves today. Others are awaiting to see if Obamacare is repealed, as Republicans have promised.  If it is not, expect an acceleration.

For anyone who has ever run a business this is simply a "DUH". For those who have no clue as to how business operates (that is, most of Congress and the government), this response is surprising. You mean if we impose a tax on something, people react by doing less of it? Yes, DUH.

Not Headed For Greece?

Below is a chart that sums up all of the present value of all government obligations expressed as a percentage of the country's GDP. Not just the current debt obligation, but all the unfunded promises the country has made for pensions and healthcare. As you're watching what is unfolding in Greece, take notes.