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<p>Since you brought that up, let’s talk about that.</p>
<p>The recession officially ended in June 2009, according to the NBER. From July 1 2009 to today, the market has been up a whopping 25-30%, depending on whether you’re using the DJIA, Nasdaq, or S&P 500 index. (If you don’t believe it, then look it up for yourself). No matter how you slice it, the inescapable fact is that shareholders have been amply rewarded since the recession ended. </p>
<p>Since shareholders have been well rewarded, why shouldn’t employees? To be sure, I am not saying that employees should receive a proportional share of the gains. Equity holders assume the position of greatest risk, so they deserve most of the downside and upside. But employees should still receive some of the upside. If shareholders are enjoying gains, then employees should be enjoying gains as well. </p>
<p>To say otherwise is to admit that corporations are prioritizing shareholders at the expense of employees. But that then begs the question - why, as an employee, would you want to work for a corporation that does that?</p>