The U.S. economy is showing mixed signals. Inflation has slowed, to 2.7% in November, but the U.S. unemployment rate has creeped up to 4.6%, its highest level since September of 2021. Earlier this month the Federal Reserve voted to trim interest rates by a quarter-point, its third cut of the year, which could provide a welcome economic boost but could also be seen as a sign that the Fed is concerned about the economy slipping into a recession.
So, what direction is the economy heading? To provide southeastern Wisconsin business leaders with insight into the state of the economy and what to expect in 2026, BizTimes Media will present its 25th annual Economic Trends event on Thursday, Jan. 22, from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Italian Community Center in Milwaukee. Click here to register.
Michael Knetter, an economist who served as an advisor to Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton, will provide his annual macro-economic outlook, as he has at nearly every Economic Trends event. Knetter is senior advisor, investments and business development for the UW Foundation & Alumni Association.
Other speakers at the Economic Trends 2026 event will include:
Following the presentations from those speakers, there will be two breakout sessions:
- The Southeastern Wisconsin Economy: A Closer Look, hosted by Knetter and Dave Anderson, head of U.S. commercial banking, Wisconsin region and senior executive southeastern Wisconsin for BMO
- 2026: A Year of Transition, hosted by Annex Wealth Management
The 25th annual Economic Trends event is sponsored by BMO.
Annex Wealth Management is a partner with the event, and The Bartolotta Restaurants is the venue partner.