Economic Outlook 2026: A Boardroom Briefing

As board directors prepared to align strategic planning with the economic realities of 2026, NACD Philadelphia was pleased to host a timely and insightful fireside chat with Mark Zandi, Chief Economist of Moody’s Analytics, moderated by Trish Wellenbach, Chief Strategy and Partnership Officer for the City of Philadelphia and a respected CEO and board leader.

This dynamic conversation explored the economic forces that are likely to shape the coming year, including interest rates, inflation, labor markets, global trade, and geopolitical risks. As companies faced ongoing uncertainty and increasing complexity, the session provided essential context and forward-looking analysis to help board directors navigate the economic realities of 2026.

A live Q&A session followed the conversation, giving attendees the opportunity to engage with one of the nation’s leading economic voices.

Speaker

Chief Economist, Moody’s Analytics; Lead Director, PolicyMap; Director, MGIC Investment Corp., Coleridge Initiative

Mark Zandi

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Mark Zandi is chief economist of Moody’s Analytics, where he directs economic research. Moody’s, a subsidiary of Moody’s Corp., is a leading provider of economic research, data, and analytical tools. Zandi also cofounded Economy.com, which Moody’s purchased in 2005...

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Moderator

Independent Board Director

Trish Wellenbach NACD.DC

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With more than 25 years of experience in the executive and C-suites, Patricia D. Wellenbach has demonstrated experience in restructuring and building businesses to position them for future growth and opportunity...

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