2025 Economic Outlook Featuring Cullum Clark
Click to watch this quarters economic outlook
On Wednesday, February 5, The CFO Forum held it’s quarterly economic outlook featuring Cullum Clark, Director of the Bush Institute.
The discussion, led by Cullum Clark, covered pressing topics such as economic policy, market trends, and Atlanta’s strategic positioning in the broader economy. After the election, the dialogue provided was both timely and insightful. Cullum Clark covered:
Near-Term Economic Outlook: Policy and Market Forces at Play
The conversation highlighted a mix of upsides and challenges shaping the U.S. economy. Deregulation and tax reform renewal were identified as potential drivers of economic growth, particularly in corporate taxation and energy permitting. Meanwhile, emerging technologies in AI and biopharma were recognized as key areas of opportunity. However, the discussion also underscored concerns about fiscal deficits, tariffs, and immigration policy, which could introduce uncertainty in labor markets and international trade.
Inflation and Interest Rates: Managing Economic Pressures
Clark examined the factors influencing inflation, noting that while fiscal stimulus has slowed, supply-side changes, including deregulation, may introduce positive economic shocks. The Federal Reserve’s role remains pivotal, as interest rate projections continue to shape market expectations and borrowing costs, particularly in sectors like housing and business investment.
Four Long-Term Trends Reshaping the Economy
The forum also explored structural shifts that will define the economic landscape in the coming decades:
• Demographics: A slowing population growth rate and an aging workforce may lead to sustained labor shortages, increased automation, and evolving consumer demand.
• Science & Innovation: The U.S. remains a global leader in scientific research and commercialization, though concerns were raised about declining productivity in idea generation and patent activity.
• Global Trade & U.S. Leadership: A decisive shift in trade policy has led to increased skepticism toward free markets, with implications for productivity and economic dynamism.
• The National Debt: With discretionary spending projected to exceed $21 trillion over the next decade, policymakers will face difficult choices balancing economic stimulus and fiscal responsibility.
Atlanta’s Economic Outlook: A Regional Perspective
Atlanta remains one of the strongest-performing metropolitan economies in the U.S., bolstered by a thriving corporate ecosystem, high innovation rankings, and a strong talent pipeline. However, housing affordability and supply constraints present challenges that could impact the city’s long-term growth. The forum emphasized the need for strategic planning to maintain Atlanta’s competitive edge in attracting businesses and talent.
Looking Ahead
The discussion underscored the need for business leaders to remain agile in navigating economic uncertainties while capitalizing on opportunities presented by technological advancements and policy shifts. As the landscape evolves, CFOs will play a critical role in shaping financial strategies that align with both near-term market conditions and long-term economic trends.
The next CFO Forum event, CFO’s Role in Harnessing the Power of AI, will take place in June 2025.
