While we were wrapping up this issue, concerning news surfaced about the U.S. economy: gross domestic product fell 9.5 percent in the second quarter of this year, which would equal a 32.9 percent annual rate of decline. This is despite the trillions of dollars the government has pumped in to shore up the economy.
Distressing as that is, however, the payments industry is a good place to be right now. Why? Because of the can-do nature of the people working in payments from leaders of today who began fledgling enterprises while still in school, to reps who troubleshoot thorny problems until merchants are satisfied, to entrepreneurs who launch and then sell successful businesses time after time, to innovators who continually come up with fresh ideas that inspire others to take on new challenges.
Among those who motivate others are members of The Green Sheet Advisory Board. This issue's lead article presents the second group of perspectives from them on how they are balancing safety and economic needs for their own companies, their merchants and partners, and the wider community. They are sources of strength during trying times who are tackling the present while also planning for success years down the road.
Experts contributing to this issue also inspire with insights from inside the payments realm. Herein you'll find discussions of the need for federal stimulus bills to support small and midsize businesses, as well as incorporate faster payments; the imperative to maintain security controls during COVID-19 and how PCI DSS compliance assessments can be done remotely; a reminder that if you don't articulate where and why you're moving in a particular direction, you'll never achieve the desired result, and how clarity of purpose, clear outcomes and consistent daily action can make all the difference in your career.
In addition, we've included product and company profiles, briefs on news posted recently on www.greensheet.com, and updates on milestones and developments including new industry guidance, awards, ventures, partnerships, acquisitions, executive appointments and more. Plus, a free educational resource on maintaining cybersecurity is offered in Readers Speak.
How are you faring right now? What advice do you have for your industry peers at this juncture? And, most importantly, what helpful information would you like us to provide so that you can be a dynamic force during trying times? Reach out to us at greensheet@greensheet.com, and do continue to send your news to press@greensheet.com. 
The Green Sheet Inc. is now a proud affiliate of Bankcard Life, a premier community that provides industry-leading training and resources for payment professionals. Click here for more information.
Notice to readers: These are archived articles. Contact names or information may be out of date. We regret any inconvenience.
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