Unprecedented times: Experts to weigh in at 2020 Economic Outlook webinar

One of the longest-running, most in-demand forecast events in the Phoenix metropolitan area, the annual Economic Outlook Luncheon will be offered exclusively online for the first time, presented by the Economic Club of Phoenix and hosted by Arizona State University's W. P. Carey School of Business from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 5.

“Based on current circumstances, it was decided that instead of canceling the event, we would host it online for ECP members,” said W. P. Carey School Dean Amy Hillman.

Alumni relations, marketing and IT teams are pulling together the digital event for more than 150 remote guests — and growing — to be held via Zoom.

Top economic experts from ASU who are regularly interviewed in the press for their expertise in the national, state and local economy, as well as trends in commercial and residential real estate, will examine the impact of recent events and explain what's around the corner, discussing how COVID-19, stock market volatility and the upcoming election will shape our economic future.

The economists will take questions during the new interactive webinar through a Q&A session. Plus, the annual Economic Confidence Quiz will be featured during the online presentation.

Dennis Hoffman, a professor of economics and director of the Seidman Research Institute, will examine recent national trends as the U.S. deals with COVID-19 and share the factors that will influence those trends going forward.

Lee McPheters, a research professor of economics and director of the JPMorgan Chase Economic Outlook Center, will offer a first look at the year ahead for Arizona and the Phoenix metro area as the Valley deals with the myriad challenges coronavirus presents, along with an update on year-to-date performance in 2020.

Mark Stapp, Fred E. Taylor Professor in Real Estate and executive director of the Master of Real Estate Development program, will discuss how the normal approaches in the industry, such as foreclosure, eviction and locking out are not likely to work during the pandemic and could cause more damage.

“We’re hoping the webinar brings a new audience to us, people who wouldn’t have been interested in attending a luncheon but can make it for a webinar,” said Hillman, who will moderate the event. “We may get new people interested in the Economic Club of Phoenix for the next season.”

The event is complimentary for ECP members, and their membership will be extended one luncheon during the 2020–21 season, which begins this fall. Non-member registration is $50. Sign up online at wpcarey.asu.edu/economic-club.