Mid-Market Hiring Outlook Appears to Be Better

Mid-market executives are turning more bullish on the economy and moving forward with major business decisions.

According to a recent survey, execs are investing in hiring and technology in an effort to promote growth, and nearly a third say they will make an acquisition during the next 12 months. But almost two-thirds of respondents say rising healthcare costs are the biggest obstacle to overall economic growth.

The number of closed deals has been rising since hitting their low this year of 143 in February. The number of deals climbed to 185 in April, but that still fell short of January's level of 216.

Deal value increased to more than $25 billion last month, the highest point since January.

Meanwhile, Gentiva Health Services has rejected a $533 million takeover bid from Kindred Healthcare.

The home health and hospice provider says the proposal significantly undervalues the company, adding it can generate more value to shareholders as a stand-alone company.