Why does this matter? Because Nike needs to be prepared for a financial downturn. With the consumer already struggling with high gas prices and consumer goods, Nike will be forced to make short term decisions. These short term decisions will hope to buoy the stock price just enough to prevent further bleeding.
What does that mean for all of us? More severe layoffs. Not just Nike but every company that lacks the financials to survive. Won't be '08 all over again, but it won't feel good.