Laddey Clark & Ryan LLP and Nisivoccia LLP hosted the Sixth Annual Economic Outlook Forum 2023 on June 20 at Perona Farms in Andover.

The Laddey Clark & Ryan/Nisivoccia Economic Outlook Forum brought together New Jersey business leaders to focus on business opportunities and challenges. Specifically, the program focused on economic trends affecting Northern New Jersey. The economic engine that has powered much of the rest of New Jersey does not always reach into our area. What makes our area so desirable as a place to live can present unique challenges for attracting and growing businesses. The Economic Forum explored those challenges and discussed how to turn them into opportunities.

The keynote speaker, Ryan Severino, CFA, is Chief Economist and Head of U.S. Research at BentallGreenOak, and Adjunct Professor at Columbia University and New York University. BentellGreenOak is a real estate investment firm based in Toronto and New York City.

Mr. Severino’s presentation, “The Economy in 2023: Not What We Expected?” tackled a number of compelling issues for local businesses and investors:

•                     Is Inflation Behind Us?

•                     Onto the Next Crisis(es)?

•                     Has the Outlook Changed?

•                     What Does it Mean for New Jersey?

•                     Risks to the Outlook

Severino's comments were followed by a panel discussion of local business leaders, moderated by Thomas N. Ryan, Managing Partner of Laddey Clark & Ryan, LLP, and Deirdre M. Hartmann, CPA, Partner at Nisivoccia. The business panel featured Jenn Cable, President, Thorlabs; Neil Martucci, Chief Financial Officer, First Hope Bank; and Kurt Gewecke, President, KG Companies.

“Local business owners, executives and investors are trying to chart a course forward in very uncertain economic times. The Economic Outlook Forum offered keen insights and some answers to help us navigate a post-pandemic economic recovery.”