A new conundrum? How long will it last?

Markets in the US do not seem to know which way to turn.

We have an interesting situation where companies in general have figured out a way to make more money with less while the the average Joe has a hard time making ends meet or finding a job.

Would it last? in other words, for how long can companies continue growing profits while the average Joe has a hard time? 2 quarters? 6 months? A year? A few years?

Can US companies continue to do well in light of poor economic conditions in the US? What role does globalization play in this situation?

A few questions to ponder in the final days of summer. What do you think?