Why Temporary Jobs Are Collapsing and What It Means

In this episode, Lucas and Luna dig into one of the most overlooked recession signals: the temporary help industry. With the latest BLS data showing temp jobs down 2.8% year-over-year—a steeper drop than before the 2020 recession—they explain why staffing agencies are the canary in the coal mine for broader layoffs. Lucas walks through the mechanics: when companies aren't sure about demand, they cut temp workers first, because there's no severance, no stigma, and no wait. They tie this to the recent JOLTS surge (7.6 million openings) and the puzzling fact that job openings are still high even as temp employment shrinks. Luna challenges whether this time is different because of post-pandemic labor hoarding. They also discuss how the ECB's recent rate hike could amplify the drag. No hot takes—just a clear, data-driven look at a leading indicator that's flashing red. #TemporaryHelp #JobMarket #RecessionSignals #BLS #LaborMarket #Economics #StaffingIndustry #LeadingIndicators #EmploymentData #JOLTS #ECB #InterestRates #2026 #BusinessPodcast #FexingoBusiness #TheLaborMarketPodcast #LucasAndLuna #WageGrowth Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo