The role of temp work in this economy
Summary
Marketplace explores a confounding labor market where businesses, wary of geopolitical uncertainty and AI, are increasingly hiring temporary staff instead of full-time employees. The episode features an Illinois farmer discussing trade policy impacts and examines the looming global jet fuel shortage caused by the closed Strait of Hormuz. Finally, reporters visit Ho Chi Minh City to highlight Vietnam’s growing tech sector and its appeal to global companies seeking skilled, affordable talent.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Cornerstone and VantageScore
Marketplace intro: Labor market uncertainty and temp hiring
Rise of temporary and contract workers amid economic fears
Job seekers navigating the gig economy and contract work
Wall Street update: Allbirds AI pivot and market indices
Interview with Illinois farmer Brian Duncan on trade and costs
Global jet fuel shortage risks due to Strait of Hormuz closure
Sponsors: Odoo and Dell back-to-school deals
Vietnam series: Street electronics repair in Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam series: Saigon Technology and the local tech workforce
Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings steps down from board
Promo for How We Survive podcast on geoengineering
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