The seminar included big picture discussions of the opportunities and challenges the Triangle economy may face in 2026, as well as remarks from local executives and Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond CEO Tom Barkin.
"2025's uncertainty is bound to diminish," Barkin said in his opening comments. "The fog should lift. And as firms build confidence and demand in the policy environment, that should be good for hiring and for investment."
There was a cautious optimism at Tuesday's event from speakers, including Barkin, as we head into a new year.
"I just think the basics are pretty straightforward. Consumers have jobs, real wages are increasing. Asset values keep growing. Corporate earnings and corporate earning outlooks remain strong," he said.
But uncertainty for businesses, largely driven by tariffs, inflation, and uneven job growth, continues to cast a shadow. Those are forces business leaders across the area are working to overcome, and that they're optimistic they can topple in 2026.
"I think as this 2026 starts up, I'm hoping that we can get past that because I do know there's a lot of interest from international companies to come here and so I think having a little more certainty will certainly help us," said Ryan Combs, executive director of the Research Triangle Regional Partnership, which works to lure companies and investment to the region.
Major topics discussed Tuesday included the role of AI, balancing growth and affordability, and relocation and real estate trends. Compared to last year's forecast, Combs said he believes there's more of an appetite for businesses to act in 2026.
"I think that's what I'm optimistic about. I think while people were kicking tires last year and trying to figure out the economy now, they really want to make decisions," he said.
The annual event brought together leaders across various sectors to talk about challenges and opportunities. It's a process that economic officials say has grown to become invaluable.
"It's about providing clarity," said Devin Brown with the Raleigh Chamber. "It's about starting the year off with the knowledge and information that you, as a business leader, a community leader, might be interested in thinking about what do I need to know to kind of guide myself through the year."
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