The increase appears to be due to stronger than expected organic growth, an area of recent concern for investors.

The big concern is future inflation and the Fed is viewing that through the labor market. Wage growth continues to be muted.

Both private equity firms and strategic chemical buyers should have an interest. There could be even more value in a breakup of the six business segments.

The deceleration in earnings growth is a significant concern. Techs are up against steep comparisons in the second half of this year and the first half of next year,

Traffic has been picking up for years. We make some exceptions for growth but our concern is sound, sight and safety.

I would agree that the current low job growth is a matter of concern, but this index is aimed at the long run. Massachusetts was hit particularly hard by the last recession, but it also means we're poised for a strong recovery.