45th Annual USC Economic Outlook Conference

South Carolina’s economy grew in 2025, despite a pullback in consumer spending, slower job growth, and increased business uncertainty due to ongoing trade negotiations. Nevertheless, these economic headwinds are getting stronger in the Palmetto State, generating concerns about a broader economic slowdown in 2026.

South Carolina’s economic growth has come from fewer industries this year, as sectors tied directly to international trade have slowed. This is especially true for manufacturing, retail, and logistics-based businesses, which have seen either flat or negative growth as businesses pause major investment decisions and wait for greater clarity on trade policy.

In addition, the lingering effects of inflation, high interest rates, and rising housing prices continue to weigh on consumers and threaten to further erode consumer spending. The rapid adoption of AI in the workplace may also signal major changes in the labor market, including increased unemployment rates.

The 45th Annual USC Economic Outlook Conference will address these concerns and tackle the important questions at the top of everyone’s minds:• Will the newly implemented tariffs eventually generate a significant uptick in inflation? And if so, by how much?• As an export-oriented manufacturing state, how likely is South Carolina to benefit from the newly implemented tariff policies?• How many times will the Federal Reserve cut interest rates? Will this have a meaningful impact on increasing economic growth or improving housing affordability?• What indicators are most important to watch to assess the likelihood of recession in 2026?• With the rapid adoption of AI, are we on the verge of a sizable increase in unemployment?

The event will be interactive and will include several opportunities for Q&A.

Speakers

• Joseph Von Nessen, Ph.D., Research Economist, Darla Moore School of Business

• Douglas Woodward, Ph.D., Professor of Economics, Darla Moore School of Business

• Cody Thacker, Vice President of Commercial Operations, Scount Motors

• Laura Ullrich, Ph.D., Director of Economic Research, Indeed, Inc.

Economic Outlook Conference Agenda

11:30am-12:30pm: Network luncheon

12:30pm: Session Begins

2:00pm-2:10pm: Break

3:30pm: : Session Concludes

For sponsorship opportunities: contact: [email protected]

Refunds are not available after 11/1/25.

Host or Publisher Dr. Deborah Hazzard, Associate Dean of Diversity & Inclusion