On Friday, December 12, 2025, the 39th Annual Economic Outlook Symposium took place at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. The symposium focused on the forces shaping the U.S. economy as 2026 approached. This hybrid event featured the following:
A fireside chat with Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee
A consensus outlook for the economy from conference participants given by Chicago Fed Principal Business Economist Thomas Walstrum
Sessions with industry and Chicago Fed experts, who offered outlooks on key economic sectors and the labor market
Through events like this, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago serves the public, fostering economic opportunity and advancing a strong economy for our region and nation.
Forecast Competition:
Registrants were invited to submit a forecast of four economic indicators to be included in the consensus outlook for 2026. No forecasting experience was required.