MADISON, Wis.–Credit union professionals from around the country were given insights on the economy and other issues that will be affecting their business in the year ahead.
Corporate Central CU hosted its 2017 Economic Outlook Conference at Monona Terrace, where fiscal policy, monetary policy, financial markets, and consumer behavior were all on the agenda.
“For several years now, we’ve had the pleasure of bringing together credit union executives to learn and exchange valuable information about the current and upcoming economic environment,” said Chris Felton, Corporate Central president/CEO. “With the help of expert speakers every year, the conference has proved to be a helpful and appreciated informational resource for credit union executives. Our mission is to help members be ‘wildly successful’ and hosting the Economic Outlook Conference is a crucial component of that commitment.”
“This annual conference offers the opportunity for our members to hear multiple viewpoints on a broad range of data related to where we’ve been, where we’re at, and where we may be headed in the economy and markets,” added Nick Fanning, CFA, Corporate Central SVP/chief financial officer. “This information can be very valuable as credit unions begin the process of planning, budgeting and strategizing for 2018 and beyond.”
According to Corporate Central, this year’s speakers included:
- Mike Schenk, CUNA VP of Research & Policy Analysis. Schenk spoke about the economy and credit union operations. Schenk was a returning conference favorite, highly-rated for his interpretation and understanding of how economic changes impact the credit union industry. His presentation reviewed the implications of economic growth, explored credit union responses, and discussed prospects for future success.
- Clare Zempel, CFA, CBE, Principal of Zempel Strategic. Zempel spoke about economic and financial market prospects, as well as risks credit unions may face in the next five years. Zempel answered critical questions, such as how quickly the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates, when the next recession might hit, and how shifts in fiscal policy will affect different sectors.
- Walt Schmidt, CFA, SVP & Manager of Mortgage Strategies Group. Schmidt covered the economy, yield curve, and how a possible flatter curve will affect the mortgage market.
- Elry Armaza, Impact Director & Analyst of Filene Research Institute. Armaza presented on confidence in borrowing and addressed ways to develop strategies that support consumers as they navigate how and when to borrow and invest.
Corporate Central’s 2018 Economic Outlook Conference will be held next September in Madison.