"Funding levels of pension plans sponsored by S&P 1500 companies continued a strong rebound in 2013, with the aggregate deficit decreasing by $10 billion during the month of July, resulting in a $212 billion deficit as July 31, 2013, according to Mercer. The funded ratio (assets divided by liabilities) increased from 88% to 89% during July, up 15% since the end of 2012 and reached their highest level since October 2008."