Special episode: Q1 2023 economic and geopolitical update

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Will 2023’s economy be substantially different from last year’s? This week, Heather Horn was joined by Craig Stronberg and Zain Siddiqui, directors in PwC Intelligence, to discuss the latest macroeconomic and geopolitical developments. Craig and Zain share insights on why companies should be thinking ahead when it comes to the state of the economy and volatility in the global markets.

In this episode, you’ll hear discussion of:

• 2:20 - The forces shaping the economic outlook for the rest of 2023
• 9:27 - The impact of politics and the election cycle on the business environment
• 16:41 - Updates on whether a recession is still anticipated this year
• 23:45 - The interaction of consumer demand, the labor market, and inflation on the Fed’s monetary policy plans
• 27:32 - The “long tail” of COVID and its ongoing impacts on supply chains and the global economy
• 34:30 - How companies should prepare for longer term geopolitical uncertainty across Europe and Asia
• 43:10 - Economic watch list items for companies to track throughout the year

Want to identify how different macroeconomic trends could impact your accounting and reporting? We've created an interactive tool, Accounting in uncertain economic times. Use it to better understand potential challenges and locate additional resources. 

Craig Stronberg leads the Business Acumen capability for PwC Intelligence, spearheading the team of analysts that provides macroeconomic, sector, and geopolitical intelligence to key stakeholders. Named as one of the "100 Most Creative People in Business” by Fast Company, Craig had a nearly 20 year career in national security affairs working for and advising numerous agencies and international partners, having been decorated five times. His focus has been on numerous areas, including counterintelligence, economic espionage, counterterrorism, cyber threats, political-military issues, special operations integration, and support for major events such as the Olympic Games.

Zain Siddiqui is a senior economist for PwC Intelligence with a specialty in macroeconomics and finance. He advises stakeholders and clients on the business implications of emerging macro and geopolitical vulnerabilities, and helps them shape business strategy. His research has appeared in books on international economic policy and macroeconomic journals.

Heather Horn is is PwC’s National Office thought leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series. With over 30 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

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