CEO Perspectives

Learn why culture and constant innovation are essential to developing life-changing biopharma treatments. Vertex Pharmaceuticals focuses on “serial innovation” because this year's billion-dollar blockbuster drug could become next year's failure. How does this biopharmaceutical company recruit and onboard employees, and how does it create a culture where the best ideas thrive? Join David Young and guest Reshma Kewalramani, president and CEO at Vertex Pharmaceuticals and a recipient of the 2025 CED Distinguished Leadership Awards. You'll learn about Kewalramani's career path, what the company learned from developing a hepatitis C drug, and why the company welcomes in students to experiment alongside employees. The Leadership in Challenging Times discussions feature timely and insightful discussions with the outstanding CEOs who are recipients of CED's Distinguished Leadership Awards. Business leader honorees discuss the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and how they are helping chart a path forward for both their companies and communities in which they operate. For more from The Conference Board: ·         CED Announces Recipients of Its 2025 Distinguished Leadership Awards ·         CED Distinguished Leadership Awards Celebration ·         Women in STEM: Closing the Gender Gap

We've just passed the midway point of 2025 -- what are the top 10 priorities for chief marketing officers (CMOs) for the rest of the year?     CMOs have been tasked with driving growth even while they grapple with external uncertainty, widespread burnout, and the rise of AI. What else made The Conference Board's top 10 CMO priorities for the rest of 2025?     Join Steve Odland and guest Ivan Pollard, the Marketing & Communications Center Leader at The Conference Board, to find out what we can learn from CMO surveys, why the CMO-CEO relationship matters, and why 2025 is the year AI needs to contribute to revenue growth.     The Conference Board is profiling the top 10 priorities for crucial job functions and business units. In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, we look at the top priorities for CMOs.      For more from The Conference Board:  Recognition Rises for CMOs Even as Workload Saps Their Energy  Amid Turmoil, Marketers Are Worried About Their Budgets  CMO-CEO Collaboration: CEOs Want CMOs to Focus on Business Growth—Period 

Learn how General Mills takes strategy from concept into reality—all while standing for good.     General Mills CEO Jeff Harmening had the company pick 10 areas where it would “stand for good” and deliver meaningful impact, including regenerative agriculture and packaging reductions. What can other businesses learn about executing a strategy that delivers sustainable results for shareholders, customers, and the planet?     Join David Young and guest Jeff Harmening, CEO of General Mills, to find out why General Mills builds purpose into its strategy, how the company maintains its culture, and why Harmening didn't always dream of being a CEO.    The Leadership in Challenging Times discussions feature timely and insightful discussions with the outstanding CEOs who are recipients of CED's Distinguished Leadership Awards. Business leader honorees discuss the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and how they are helping chart a path forward for both their companies and communities in which they operate.       00:32 Meet Jeff Harmening: CEO of General Mills 01:18 Jeff's Career Journey and Leadership Values 03:48 The Accelerate Strategy: Driving Sustainable Growth 06:07 Standing for Good: General Mills' Purpose and Values 08:50 A Legacy of Philanthropy and Community Impact 10:10 Focusing on Key Initiatives: From 70 to 10 10:48 Regenerative Agriculture and Environmental Goals 12:39 Building a Culture of Belonging at General Mills 15:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   For more from The Conference Board:  CED Announces Recipients of Its 2025 Distinguished Leadership Awards  CED Distinguished Leadership Awards Celebration  Purpose Shapes Corporate Reputation More Than Innovation Does 

After a brief rebound in May, consumer confidence slipped again. What changed in June—and what might it mean for the economy this summer?  The Consumer Confidence Index dropped to 93.0 from 98.4, wiping out half the gains seen last month. Consumers are feeling less optimistic across the board: both their assessment of current business and labor market conditions and their short-term expectations for income, jobs, and the economy have weakened. Pessimism about job availability and business conditions is also more pronounced than it was in May.  In this episode, Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist for Global Indicators, joins Malala Lin, Economic Research Associate, to unpack the latest data. They explore what's driving this decline in sentiment, how it could shape consumer behavior through the summer, and the broader implications for US economic growth.    For more from The Conference Board:  US Consumer Confidence Retreats in June  Global Leading Indicators: Recession and Growth Trackers  Fed Keeps 2 Cuts in 2025, but Dumps 1 Cut in 2026 on Inflation 

Employer branding reflects your organization's public perception—and you can measure its effectiveness.     In a world where any job candidate can see your reputation at a glance online, employer branding is essential. How is employer branding different from other branding, and how can companies measure the ROI?     Join Steve Odland and guest Erka Amursi, principal researcher in the Human Capital Center at The Conference Board, to find out the history of employer branding, the challenges in measuring ROI, and why change management can help employer branding efforts succeed.    (00:38) The Evolving Role of the CHRO (01:43) Strategic Partnership and Talent Management (03:14) CHROs in the Boardroom (07:03) Global Perspectives on Corporate Governance (08:49) Research Methodology and Insights (10:17) CHROs' Collaboration with C-Suite Members (13:04) Future Skills for CHROs (18:17) Board and CEO Support for CHROs    For more from The Conference Board:  The ROI of Employer Branding: The Case for Measurement   The ROI of Employer Branding: Approaches for Demonstrating Impact  What is the ROI of Your Employer Branding Efforts? 

Science and technology will bring more change to health care over the next decade than we saw in the past century, says Joaquin Duato, Chairman and CEO, Johnson & Johnson, and a 2025 Distinguished Leadership Award honoree. What drives his confidence, and how is the company creating this future?     Join David K. Young and Duato to discover what he has learned in 36 years at J&J, how the company innovates in science and technology, and how the company supports employees and communities.  This Leadership in Challenging Times discussion is featured as a C-Suite Perspectives podcast and a special CED Policy Watch Webcast. Leadership in Challenging Times features timely and insightful discussions with the outstanding CEOs who are recipients of CED's Distinguished Leadership Awards. Business leader honorees discuss the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and how they are helping chart a path forward for both their companies and communities in which they operate.      (04:08) Leadership Philosophy and Company Culture (06:48) Secrets to Johnson & Johnson's Longevity (09:11) Transforming Health Care with Science and Technology (12:09) Investment Strategies in Health Care Innovation (15:53) Advancing Technology and AI at Johnson & Johnson (18:38) Addressing the Global Health Care Workforce Shortfall (19:41) Ensuring Access to Health Care for Underserved Communities   For more from The Conference Board:  CED Announces Recipients of Its 2025 Distinguished Leadership Awards  CED Distinguished Leadership Awards Celebration 

If you work in sustainability or ESG, you're already grappling with a rapidly evolving regulatory and policy landscape, all while proving the ROI of your sustainability strategy. What other crucial issues should sustainability executives prioritize for the remainder of 2025?     Join Steve Odland and guest Andrew Jones, PhD, principal researcher at The Conference Board Governance & Sustainability Center, to find out how AI is affecting sustainability work, the importance of supply chain sustainability and water stewardship, and why policy changes shouldn't affect your underlying goals.     At the midway point of 2025, The Conference Board is profiling the top 10 priorities for crucial job functions and business units. In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, we look at the top priorities for sustainability executives.      (00:49) Priority Number 10: AI in Sustainability (02:27) Priority Number 9: Communicating and Storytelling (05:09) Priority Number 8: Integrating Sustainability into Business Operations (07:52) Priority Number 7: Biodiversity and Natural Capital (10:47) Priority Number 6: Water Stewardship and Scarcity (13:58) Priority Number Five: Supply Chain Transparency and Sustainability (16:47) Priority Number 4: Climate Strategy (18:44) Priority Number 3: Demonstrating ROI in Sustainability (20:25) Priority Number 2: Sustainability Reporting Regulations (22:28) 20:39 Priority Number 1: Navigating ESG Policy Changes   For more from The Conference Board:  Top 10 Sustainability Priorities for 2025 New Approaches to Telling Your Sustainability Story  Corporate Climate Disclosures and Practices: Risk, Emissions, and Targets  The EPA's Deregulatory Agenda: Implications for Corporate Sustainability 

Cybersecurity has become top of mind for Fortune 500 companies, and yet attacks, breaches, and other incidents keep happening. Can companies really prevent cyber risks, and what approach should they be taking?  Join David Young and guest Jay Chaudhry, CEO, chairman, and founder of Zscaler, to find out the three lessons his parents taught him, why Zscaler has a customer obsession, and why zero trust architecture is critical for today's cyber approach.  This Leadership in Challenging Times discussion is featured as a C-Suite Perspectives podcast and a special CED Policy Watch Webcast. Leadership in Challenging Times features timely and insightful discussions with the outstanding CEOs who are recipients of CED's Distinguished Leadership Awards. Business leader honorees discuss the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and how they are helping chart a path forward for both their companies and communities in which they operate.     For more from The Conference Board:  CED Announces Recipients of Its 2025 Distinguished Leadership Awards  CED Distinguished Leadership Awards Celebration  CED Report on Securing Cyberspace 

Tariffs and stock market movements remained top of mind for consumers in May. The Expectations Index—based on consumers' short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions—showed modest improvement overall. Expectations for business conditions and the labor market inched up but stayed in pessimistic territory. The key bright spot was income expectations, which moved into positive territory, supported by a stronger stock market and early signs of progress on a trade deal with China.    Dana Peterson, Chief Economist and Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center at The Conference Board, sits down with Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist, Global Indicators, and Erik Lundh, Senior Global Economist, to discuss the outlook for the US GDP, whether consumers are worried about a recession, and how the Fed might handle the current uncertainty.    00:38 Consumer Confidence in May   01:34 Impact of Tariffs and Financial Markets   04:08 Consumer Expectations and Spending   08:21 Inflation and Financial Concerns   13:03 Changes in US and Global Economic Forecasts   21:10 Factors Influencing Future Economic Outlook   22:46 Conclusion and Farewell  

Get insights on the President's polling 100 days in and how Americans view crucial domestic issues.  The Administration's approval rating has declined from 51% to 45% since Inauguration Day, but that's relatively in line with historical precedent. What does the President's polling tell us about the American public today—and how they might vote in the 2026 midterms?  Join Steve Odland and guest Clifford Young, president of polling and societal trends at Ipsos, to explore the President's polling versus his first term, the nuances of polling on immigration and taxes, and why domestic issues matter more to Americans than foreign affairs.    (00:55) Themes in Recent Polls: Trepidation and the President (02:22) The Administration's Approval Ratings and Public Perception (07:15) Consumer Confidence and Economic Behavior (13:46) Geopolitical Issues and Immigration For more from The Conference Board:  The Next One Hundred Days—and Beyond: What Lies Ahead  Navigating Washington: Insights for Business  Unpacking 2024's Election Polling with Ipsos' Clifford Young 

Can President Trump get Ukraine and Russia to agree on a peace deal? If so, what happens next?     The US administration is pushing for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, but progress has been slow, and success remains uncertain. How likely is a long-term cessation of hostilities, and how could that affect Russia's military ambitions in Europe?     Join Steve Odland and guest Dr. Lori Esposito Murray, senior fellow for national security and managing director of CEO programs at the Council on Foreign Relations, to find out the major issues prolonging the Russia-Ukraine war, the potential Russian threat to Finland and the Baltics, and the details of the recent US-Ukraine deal on critical minerals.    (01:36) Occupied Regions and Military Tactics (03:05) International Efforts and Ceasefire Attempts (04:48) US and European Support Dynamics (07:06) Russia's Strategic Moves in Europe (10:06) Challenges in Peace Negotiations (11:22) Security Guarantees and Territorial Issues (23:52) Economic Agreements and Broader Implications   For more from The Conference Board:  Analyzing the US-Ukraine Minerals Deal  Three Years of War in Ukraine – and an Extraordinary Week  The Next One Hundred Days – and Beyond: What Lies Ahead 

  As the Trump presidency enters its second 100 days, what should we expect next?     The Trump administration has had arguably the busiest first 100 days since President Franklin Roosevelt's first term. How will the White House handle the challenges of the next hundred days, including tax legislation, the next phase of DOGE, and pivotal court cases regarding the executive branch's autonomy?     Join Steve Odland and guest David K. Young, president of the Committee for Economic Development, the public policy center of The Conference Board (CED), on what the coming months hold for the Trump presidency.     Key topics include:  Priorities for upcoming tax reform  The next phase of economic policies and initiatives (including DOGE)  Critical court cases shaping presidential authority and executive branch autonomy     (01:31) Key Policy Areas: Tax and Debt Ceiling (02:38) Understanding Reconciliation and Debt Ceiling Implications (05:05) Tariffs and International Trade Relations (06:38) Geopolitical Tensions and Trade Negotiations (16:42) The Role of the Federal Reserve and Executive Tensions (20:08) Geopolitical Concerns: South China Sea, Taiwan, and More (25:04) Congressional Actions and Budget Considerations   For more from The Conference Board:  The Next One Hundred Days—and Beyond: What Lies Ahead  Navigating Washington: Insights for Business  Reforming the Broken Federal Budget Process 

As HR becomes more strategic, CHROs are building their presence inside the boardroom.     The latest research from The Conference Board shows that chief human resource officers (CHROs) are engaging much more with corporate boards in recent years. How can CHROs continue being a strategic partner while helping companies navigate the future of work?     Join Steve Odland and guests Rita Meyerson, EdD, principal researcher in The Conference Board's Human Capital Center, and Andrew Jones, PhD, principal researcher in The Conference Board's Governance & Sustainability Center. They discuss what the CEO-CHRO partnership should look like, how CHROs can improve cross-functional collaboration, and how CHROs are engaging more with boards these days.     For more from The Conference Board:  The Evolving Role of the CHRO in the Boardroom  Seizing the Future as CHROs: A Guide to the 2025 C-Suite Outlook  Productivity Through People: New Opportunities for CHROs 

Consumer confidence plunges to a 13-year low — is a recession next?  Consumer confidence declined for a fifth consecutive month in April, to levels not seen since May 2020. With Americans' spending comprising 70% of economic growth, what could their growing concerns mean for the US this year?    Three specific expectation components – business conditions, employment prospects and future income – all dropped sharply, reflecting deep pessimism about the future. Crucially, the number of consumers expecting fewer jobs in the next six months was nearly as high as in April 2009, the middle of the “Great Recession.” Americans' concerns about the wider economy are bleeding into worries about their own personal situations.     Dana Peterson, Chief Economist and Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center at The Conference Board, sits down with Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist of Global Indicators, and Erik Lundh, Senior Global Economist to unpack how this could shape US and global economic growth this year.    For more from The Conference Board:  US Consumer Confidence Plunged Again in April  Economy Watch Webcast on May 14  Labor Markets Watch on May 21 

Change is constant, and that's why your business needsa structured change management strategy.     Your business is constantly changing, even if you don't use the term “change management” to describe it. What does successful change management look like, and how can business leaders do this successfully in a time of uncertainty?     Join Steve Odland and guest Diana Scott, Center Leader of The Conference Board'US Human Capital Center, to learn about change management's history, how to win employee buy-in, and how HR leaders can help organizations adapt.    (00:00) Introduction to C-Suite Perspectives (00:16) Meet Diana Scott: Change Management Expert (00:51) Understanding Change Management (01:59) The Human Reaction to Change (03:05) Proactive vs. Reactive Change Management (04:14) The Evolution of Change Management (07:13) Implementing Change: Key Steps (13:52) The Importance of Transparency and Communication   For more from The Conference Board:  CHRO Summit: Navigating through a Tsunami of Change  Upcoming Webcast: Change is Changing: How Organizations Can Master Change Management  On Demand: How to Beat the Odds and Succeed When 70% of Organizational Transformations Fail  

e.l.f. Beauty —a 2025 recipient of the Corporate Responsibility Awards— is the only cosmetics brand to have grownits market share for 24 consecutive quarters, all while being a leader in innovation, diversity, and Fair Trade certification.What lessons can other businesses learn from e.l.f.'sembrace of diversity, sustainability, and affordable products?     Join Steve Odlandand guest Tarang Amin, chairman and CEO of e.l.f. Beauty, to find out how e.l.f.aligns its purpose with customer values, how the companyformulatesproducts that are clean, vegan, and cruelty-free, and why e.l.f. wants to make the best of beauty accessible to every eye, lip, and face.    The 2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards, taking place on April 23, celebrates organizations that have moved beyond public commitments to fully integrate responsible business practices into their core strategies, driving measurable, positive impacts on their organizations, stakeholders, and society.    (00:35) Elf Beauty's Mission and History (01:58) Building Brands and High-Performance Teams (02:50) Purpose-Driven Strategy and Values (04:51) Sustainability and Social Impact (12:19) Innovation and Technology in Sustainability (13:58) Global Expansion and Market Strategy (18:19) Supply Chain and Responsible Sourcing (23:25) Continuous Improvement and Future Goals   For more from The Conference Board:  2025 Corporate Responsibility Summit  2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards Dinner  Regulatory Shifts in ESG: What Comes Next for US Companies? 

China is determined to reincorporate Taiwan—raising the stakes for countries and for businesses.     By 2027, China could be militarily capable of taking over Taiwan, backed by the world's largest navy and a growing air force. What's next for China-Taiwan relations, and how does their relationship affect Western businesses?     Join Steve Odland and guest Dr. Lori Esposito Murray, senior fellow for national security and managing director of CEO programs at the Council on Foreign Relations, to find out how Taiwan got here, why China could seek to blockade or quarantine Taiwan, and what options are available to the US to deter or counter such threats.    (01:01) China's Military Buildup (03:41) Historical Context of China-Taiwan Relations (04:43) Post-WWII and Civil War Dynamics (07:38) US-China-Taiwan Relations and Policies (09:54) Europe's Stance on Taiwan (12:00) China's Intentions and Taiwan's Response (15:05) Potential Conflict Scenarios (24:02) Business Implications and Conclusion     For more from The Conference Board:  The US-China Trade War Escalates  China, Taiwan, Japan, and the New Administration  The Future of the CHIPS and Science Act 

Food, people, and planet—these are the three north stars that help Yum! Brands —a 2025 recipient of the Corporate Responsibility Awards—focus its sustainability efforts across water use, energy, packaging, and more. What lessons can other businesses learn from the sustainability success of this multinational company?     Join Steve Odland and guest Jon Hixson, chief sustainability officer at Yum! Brands, to find out why your sustainability strategy requires north stars,how the company wins buy-in from franchisees, and what advice he gives to up-and-coming sustainability leaders.    The 2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards, taking place on April 23, celebrates organizations that have moved beyond public commitments to fully integrate responsible business practices into their core strategies, driving measurable, positive impacts on their organizations, stakeholders, and society.    (01:54) Defining Sustainability in the Food Industry  (05:06) Key Trends in Corporate Sustainability  (06:46) Yum! Brands' Strategy: People, Food, and Planet  (10:49) Global Operations and Supply Chain Challenges  (18:50) Leveraging Technology for Sustainability  (21:49) Franchisee Engagement and Regulatory Challenges  (25:35) Future Priorities and Advice for Sustainability Leaders      For more from The Conference Board:  2025 Corporate Responsibility Summit  2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards Dinner  Organizing for Success in Corporate Sustainability 2.0 

Dive deep into the world of trade balances, the role of the US, and the power of the dollar.     The US regularly runs trade deficits with its biggest trade partners, while other blocs such as the EU have trade surpluses. Is this bad for the US, and if so, what can be done about it?     Join Steve Odland and guest Maria Demertzis, The Conference Board Economy, Strategy & Finance Center Leader for Europe, to explore trade balances, why the US dollar underpins global trade, and why the WTO rule book doesn't work well with China.    (00:21) Understanding Trade Deficits  (01:09) Measuring Trade Balances  (02:18) Country vs. Trading Block Deficits  (05:00) The Impact of Trade Deficits  (07:13) The Unique Position of the US Dollar  (10:04) Global Trade and Currency Dynamics  (18:52) Economic Policies and Trade Surpluses  (21:59) China's Role in Global Trade    For more from The Conference Board:  Reciprocal Tariffs Will Weaken US and Global Economies  The Conference Board's Tariff Tracker  Trade Wars 101: What Businesses Need to Know 

Learn how Prudential Financial continues to serve all stakeholders through clarity of purpose.     Prudential Financial has served its local community of Newark, New Jersey, for 150 years, and that's one reason it is a recipient of The Conference Board 2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards. How does the company choose when and where to invest, and how does it scale those efforts globally?      Join Steve Odland and guest Lata Reddy, senior vice president, inclusive solutions, at Prudential Financial and chair of the Prudential Foundation, to find out about Prudential's commitment to Newark, why partnerships are essential, and why the company chose "inclusive solutions” as the best title to describe their corporate responsibility mission.    The 2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards, taking place on April 23, celebrates organizations that have moved beyond public commitments to fully integrate responsible business practices into their core strategies, driving measurable, positive impacts on their organizations, stakeholders, and society.    (01:25) Prudential's Legacy in Newark (02:36) Newark's Evolution and Prudential's Role (06:38) Global Impact and Local Prioritization (10:51) Employee Engagement and Volunteerism (16:29) Inclusive Solutions and Corporate Strategy (20:49) Looking Ahead: Future Strategies     For more from The Conference Board:  2025 Corporate Responsibility Summit  2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards Dinner  Infusing Community Needs into Products and Services: Lessons from Prudential   

Learn how companies can evolve their philanthropy in a divided political climate while staying true to their values.     Most companies in 2025 are focusing their social efforts on economic opportunity and education, according to The Conference Board C-Suite Outlook 2025. How is corporate philanthropy changing, especially with the rise of AI and the backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) initiatives?     Join Steve Odland and guest  Jeff Hoffman, Acting ESG Center Leader at The Conference Board, to find out how companies can avoid scattershot giving, whether they should give directly or through an intermediary, and how to show the ROI on corporate giving.    (00:36) Understanding Corporate Philanthropy and CSR (02:30) Aligning Community Strategy with Business Strategy (04:58) Best Practices for Corporate Foundations (06:29) Trends in Corporate Philanthropy for 2025 (07:33) Impact of DEI and Political Environment on Philanthropy (09:21) Geographic Shifts and Employee Volunteerism (15:11) Leveraging AI for Smarter Giving (18:34) Direct Giving vs. Intermediaries (22:49) Adapting to the Changing Political Landscape (24:10) Measuring Impact and ROI in Corporate Philanthropy   For more from The Conference Board:  2025 Outlook for Corporate Citizenship and Philanthropy  2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards Dinner 

EV sales in the US continue to grow. Learn what needs to happen to spur further adoption.     Roughly 20% of US passenger vehicles sold in 2024 were battery electric or hybrid vehicles. What's next for the EV industry, especially in the face of a changing regulatory environment and tariffson key materials such as lithium?     Join Steve Odland and guest Dr. Alex Heil, senior economist in the US Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, to explore the future of EV growth in the US, whether EVs are price competitive with fossil fuel vehicles, and what's happening in countries such as Norway, China, and India.    (00:29) Understanding Electric Vehicles (02:15) Trends in EV Adoption (03:47) Challenges of Range and Cost (06:27) Impact on the Electrical Grid (09:10) Charging Infrastructure Developments (14:06) Commercial and Freight EVs (17:33) Global EV Market Insights   For more from The Conference Board:  Charging Ahead: Taking Stock of the Electric Vehicle Market in the US  Global EV Insights  Charging Ahead: Is India's EV Adoption Plan a Model for the Developing World? 

Amid potentially massive job cuts by the federal government, how should leaders manage this disruption?     The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) seeks to cut hundreds of thousands of federal jobs while shrinking or eliminating many agencies. How can leaders guide the federal workforce through such disruptions, both for those affected and those who remain?     Join Steve Odland and guest Diana Scott, Center Leader of the US Human Capital Center at The Conference Board, to find out how DOGE is shrinking the federal workforce, what change management looks like, and why emotional intelligence is a crucial skill for leaders right now.    (00:50) Objectives and Actions of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) (02:16) Impact on Federal Workforce and Schedule F Reclassification (03:38) Challenges and Risks of Workforce Reduction (05:15) Advising Leaders on Managing Change (08:27) Importance of Communication and Transparency (17:51) Emotional Intelligence and Support During Change (22:07) Opportunities for the Private Sector   For more from The Conference Board:  Progress Under Pressure: Preparing Federal Employees for Turbulent Times  Federal Worker Separations Will Impact Talent Markets: Take Advantage  Current Efforts to Redefine Control of the Administrative State 

Find out the latest trends in shareholder proposals—and whether they'll succeed.     Shareholder proposals are at an all-time high, but support for most of these proposals has greatly declined. What's on deck for this year's proxy season, and how should corporations prepare to engage with shareholders?     Join Steve Odland and guest Andrew Jones, principal researcher at The Conference Board ESG Center, to find out why proxy filings have risen, what's trending in proposals related to DEI and ESG, and why shareholders are starting to scrutinize companies' charitable donations.    (02:17) Trends in Shareholder Proposals (03:08) Impact of SEC Rule Changes (04:38) Focus on Environmental and Social Issues (10:18) Mechanics of Shareholder Proposals (12:15) Corporate Governance Trends (14:57) Environmental Proposals and Investor Sentiment (18:58) Social Proposals and DEI (23:50) Emerging Issues: AI and Corporate Governance   For more from The Conference Board:  2025 Proxy Season Preview  The 2025 Proxy Season: Striking a Balance  Shareholder Activism: Expectations for 2025 

In March, consumer confidence saw its fourth month-on-month decline, with people's assessment of current business and labor market conditions, plus their short-term outlook for income, business and labor market conditions, all dropping.    Crucially, consumers' optimism about future income, which had held up strongly in recent months, largely vanished, which suggests that worries about the wider economy and labor market have started to spread to people's assessments of their personal situations.    Yelena Shulyatyeva, Senior Economist,and Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist of Global Indicators, both of The Conference Board, unpack what's behind declining consumer sentiment, including survey respondents' write-in responses, and how it could shape consumer spending and US economic growth this year.    (01:49) Detailed Breakdown of Consumer Expectations (03:24) Impact of Market Volatility (05:44) Inflation Expectations and Consumer Sentiment (06:56) Tariffs and Their Influence on Consumer Views (08:25) Positive Highlights from the Survey (14:27) Federal Reserve's Potential Actions (17:53) Key Indicators to Watch Moving Forward   For more from The Conference Board:  US Consumer Confidence Tumbled Again in March  Download the full Consumer Confidence Survey Report  How Badly Will Uncertainty Affect US GDP Growth in 2025?   

Are we on the verge of a trade war? And if so, how would we get out of it?     The aggressive US stance on tariffs is already affecting trade relationships with China, Canada, and Mexico, and that's before the April 2 announcements of additional tariffs. How do economists define a trade war, and how might one affect not only the US but also the global economy?     Join Steve Odland and guests David Young, president of the Committee for Economic Development, the Public Policy Center of The Conference Board, and Erin McLaughlin, senior economist at The Conference Board Economy, Strategy & Finance Center. They discuss the numerous ways countries wield trade wars, why trade wars create uncertainty for businesses, and why the administration's April 2 announcement on reciprocal tariffs will be pivotal.    (00:43) Defining Trade Wars (03:43) Mechanisms and Effects of Trade Wars (04:37)Role of WTO and Historical Context (05:49)US Tariff Policies and Global Reactions (07:49) Economic Impacts of Tariffs (09:18) USMCA and North American Trade Relations (15:20) China's Strategy and Global Trade Dynamics (17:55) Tariffs as a Tax and Economic Implications (25:32) Conclusion and Final Thoughts   For more from The Conference Board:  Tariff Tracker  The EU's Retaliatory Tariffs Will Hit Beef, Bourbon and More  Survey: As 2025 Begins, CEOs Are Most Worried About a Trade War and Recession 

Learn how recessions are defined and the current risk of the US economy entering one.     If your GDP growth slows to a mere 1%, history tells us to watch out—negative growth is on the way. How likely is the US to face a recession this year, and how can we tell if that's happening?     Join Steve Odland and guest Yelena Shulyatyeva, Senior US Economist at The Conference Board Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, to find out the "official" definition of a recession, why inflation and growth patterns could diverge, and why uncertainty remains a key risk.     (01:21) Indicators of a Recession (02:46) Official vs. Unofficial Views on Recession (04:44) Current Economic Situation (06:02) Impact of Layoffs and Employment (15:36) Stagflation Concerns   For more from The Conference Board:  Global Forecast Update  Economic Forecast for the US Economy   The Conference Board Leading Economic Index® (LEI) for the US Fell Further in February 

The US economy will growin 2025–26, but tariffs and other factors are dampening expectations.     The US economy is expected to grow by 2.0% this year and 1.7% in 2026, according to The Conference Board—both revised down from previous projections. What's driving this pessimism about economic growth, and could stagflation become a serious risk?    Join Steve Odland and guest Yelena Shulyatyeva, Senior US Economist at The Conference Board Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, to find out what's driving this economic uncertainty, how tariffs could affect GDP and inflation, and why The Conference Board expects the Federal Reserve to make three rate cuts in 2025.      (00:21) Overview of the U.S. Economic Forecast (01:10) Factors Influencing GDP Growth (02:42) Consumer Confidence and Spending (05:42) Labor Market Projections (10:12) Inflation and Stagflation Concerns (12:05) Federal Reserve's Rate Decisions (17:25) Impact of Tariffs on the Economy (20:46) Global Economic Outlook   For more from The Conference Board:  Global Forecast Update  Tariff Tracker  What's Behind Conflicting US CEO & Consumer Confidence Readings? 

Find out what corporate responsibility looks like as part of a company's core strategy.     For Webster Bank —a 2025 recipient of the Corporate Responsibility Awards—philanthropy, community investment, sustainability, and government affairs are all part of the corporate responsibility bailiwick. What does exemplary corporate responsibility look like, and how can companies do this work while furthering business goals and serving all stakeholders?     Join Steve Odland and guest Marissa Weidner, chief corporate responsibility officer at Webster Bank, to find out how Webster Bank practices corporate responsibility, why responsibility creates accountability, and what the bank's Finance Lab is doing.    The 2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards, taking place on April 23, celebrates organizations that have gone beyond making public sustainability commitments to fully integrate sustainability into their business strategies, creating measurable, positive impacts on their organizations, stakeholders, society, and the environment.    (00:41) Marissa's Career Journey (02:10) Webster Bank's Corporate Responsibility Strategy (03:33) Community Investment Strategy (04:54) Integration of Corporate Responsibility and Business Strategy (06:31) Navigating ESG and Political Challenges (10:43) Environmental Initiatives at Webster Bank (12:49) Social Responsibility and Community Engagement (21:51) Future of Corporate Responsibility at Webster Bank   For more from The Conference Board:  2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards Dinner  The Conference Board Honors Medtronic and Webster Bank With 2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards  How Financial Services Companies are Using AI to Innovate 

What did the recent AI Summit reveal about the state of AI, including the energy problem?     The recent AI Summit in Paris raised key issues about AI regulation—and saw the US and UK refuse to sign on to the declaration.     Generative AI is becoming autonomous—not only performing assigned tasks but figuring out how best to achieve goals. How likely is a “Terminator” scenario, and how should the world address important issues such as energy use, regulation, and deepfakes?     Join Steve Odland and guest Ivan Pollard, Center Leader for Marketing & Communications at The Conference Board, to learn the difference between generative AI and autonomous AI, the potential dangers of unchecked AI, and why the US and UK refused to sign on to the recent Paris declaration.     (00:33) Defining AI and Large Language Models (01:57) Generative and Autonomous AI (04:37) AI Safety and Global Conferences (07:05) Regulation and Innovation Balance (08:37) Potential Dangers of AI (13:35) Machine Learning and Bioethics (18:26) AI in Intellectual Property (23:32) Sustainability and Energy Concerns (25:46) Future of AI and Conclusion   For more from The Conference Board:  What the Paris AI Summit Means for US Innovation  As AI Comes into Play, Business Models Will Change  Policy Alert: Rescinding AI Safety Executive Order 

Tariffs on goods imported from the US' largest three trading partners—Canada, Mexico, and China—will result in 0.6% rise in US inflation over four quarters, The Conference Board modeling shows. Consumers will definitely feel the bite in the short term, but will the administration's long-term strategy pay off?     Join Steve Odland and guest Erin McLaughlin, Senior Economist, to find out why reshoring is more complicated than it sounds, when “made in the USA” may not be, and how some negotiating tools may really just be…negotiating tools.    (00:59) Understanding Tariffs: Basics and Definitions (02:08) The Impact of Tariffs on the U.S. Economy (03:05) Tariffs as a Negotiation Tool (03:56) Global Trade and Tariff Strategies (05:07) Inflation and Consumer Impact (09:31) Reshoring and Supply Chain Challenges (15:59) China vs. North America: Different Tariff Strategies (21:43) Business Strategies Amid Tariff Uncertainty   For more from The Conference Board:  Impact of Tariffs on Three Largest US Trading Partners  US Tariff Plan Would Cut GDP Growth, Swell Inflation   The State of the Economy for February 2025  Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Will Hike Costs    

In February, consumer confidence saw its third month-on-month decline, sliding 7 points to 98.3, the steepest decline since August 2021. Additionally, consumers' short-term outlook for the economy fell below 80, which usually signals a recession ahead, for the first time since June 2024.     Erik Lundh, Senior Global Economist, and Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist of Global Indicators, both at The Conference Board, unpack what's behind declining consumer sentiment, including survey respondents' write-in responses, and how it could shape economic growth this year.  (00:30) February U.S. Consumer Confidence Survey Insights (01:08) CEO Confidence vs. Consumer Confidence (02:15) Detailed Breakdown of Consumer Confidence Components (04:49) Consumer Inflation Expectations (06:43) Consumer Spending and Market Expectations (14:40) Global Economic Outlook (15:20) U.S. Economic Forecast for 2025 (18:20) Impact of Tariffs on the Economy   For more from The Conference Board:  US Consumer Confidence Retreated in January  Download the full Consumer Confidence Survey Report  Are You Optimistic About the Economy? Most CEOs Are 

Learn why CEOs are much more optimistic about the economy in the new year.     CEO confidence is up 9 points from Q4 2024, signaling a shift to confident optimism among CEOs.    The Conference Board Measure of CEO Confidence™ reached 60 in Q1 2025—marking the highest reading in three years. What's driving these gains, and what does that mean for investment and capital spending?     Join Steve Odland and guest Stephanie Guichard, senior economist for global indicators at The Conference Board, to learn about the biggest perceived risks, what's next for hiring, and why we're in an unusual period of high uncertainty and high CEO confidence.     (01:57) CEO Confidence and Economic Outlook (05:18) Labor Market Insights (08:41) Impact of Policy and Uncertainty (11:51) Capital Spending and Investment Plans (14:33) Risks and Challenges Ahead   For more from The Conference Board:  CEO Confidence Increased Sharply in Q1 2025  C-Suite Outlook 2025: Seizing the Future  The Conference Board Leading Economic Index® (LEI) for the US Declined in January 

AT&T Chief Sustainability Officer Charlene Lake shares how the company adds value to society, communities, and the company all at once.     AT&T—a 2025 recipient of the Corporate Responsibility Awards—wants to reduce its business customers' emissions by 1 gigaton by 2035—the equivalent of 1.6 billion cross-country flights. How is AT&T making sure its corporate responsibility effortsbenefitthe company and societyin the short and long term?      Join Steve Odland and guest Charlene Lake, Chief Sustainability Officer and Senior Vice President, Corporate Responsibility at AT&T, to find out how the company designs corporate responsibility programs, why replacing copper wiring reduces energy use, and how to measure the success of these efforts.    The 2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards, taking place on April 23, celebrates organizations that have gone beyond making public sustainability commitments to fully integrate sustainability into their business strategies, creating measurable, positive impacts on their organizations, stakeholders, society, and the environment.    (00:51) Meet Charlene Lake: AT&T's Chief Sustainability Officer (02:07) Evolution of Corporate Responsibility (02:49) AT&T's Approach to Corporate Responsibility (03:15) Balancing Multiple Stakeholders (05:11) AT&T's Digital Divide and Environmental Goals (06:10) Integrating Corporate Responsibility into Business Strategy (17:25) Climate Resilience and Community Engagement (25:11) Leveraging AI and Technology for Sustainability

The ceasefire in Gaza hangs in the balance as President Donald Trump's proposal forces all sides to rethink the region's future.     The conflict in Gaza has displaced 90% of the population, with President Donald Trump proposing to take over the region and resettle nearly 2 million Gazans elsewhere. What does Trump's proposal mean for negotiations, and how can all sides broker a lasting peace between the Palestinians and Israelis?     Join Steve Odland and guest Dr. Lori Esposito Murray, senior fellow for national security and managing director of CEO programs at the Council on Foreign Relations and a CED trustee, to find out the current state of the pause in fighting, how the world reacted to Trump's proposal, and what obstacles remain to a permanent ceasefire.    (00:41) Overview of Gaza's History (02:32) Hamas' Rise to Power (03:16) Current Governance and Control (06:20) The October 7th Attack (07:47) The Aftermath and Ceasefire (11:15) US Proposal for Gaza (13:55) Reactions to the Proposal (19:12) Challenges and Alternatives (28:47) Conclusion and Final Thoughts   For more from The Conference Board:  2025 Outlook for Corporate Citizenship and Philanthropy  Corporate Citizenship Responses to the Israel–Hamas Conflict: One Year Later  The (Unfortunate) Need for a Corporate Playbook to Respond to War 

Our C-Suite Outlook 2025 survey reveals the year's priorities for each letter of ESG.     CEOs around the world rank sustainability and climate events as their top two ESG priorities for 2025, and more than 80% of S&P 500 companies say climate change is a risk factor. How can companies manage ESG-related risks while meeting the evolving expectations of stakeholders?     Join Steve Odland and guest Andrew Jones, PhD, a senior researcher at The Conference Board ESG Center, to find out why climate events are a key risk factor, the challenges of meeting disparate reporting regulations, and why US CEOs are especially worried about water.     For more from The Conference Board:  C-Suite Outlook 2025: Seizing the Future  CEOs Recognize Economic Opportunity and Education as Essential Social Priorities  Climate Resilience Gaining Momentum as an Environmental Priority 

Explore our C-Suite Outlook 2025 report with key insights from David Young of the Committee for Economic Development (CED).  The US debt stands at more than $36 trillion, and it's no surprise that US CEOs cite the US national debt and deficits as the biggest risk totheir business and business strategy in 2025. What other risks are the C-Suite monitoring, and how can they work with governments to mitigate them?  Join Steve Odland and guest David K. Young, president of the Committee for Economic Development, the public policy center of The Conference Board, to find out how the priorities of US CEOs differ from their global counterparts, what to expect with tariffs and immigration, and why energy and security are essential for US leadership on AI.     (01:04) Fiscal Health Concerns of CEOs (01:44) Regulation and Corporate Tax Rates (05:38) Protectionism and Trade Issues (09:25) Executive Orders and Immigration (13:52) Geopolitical Risks and Global Concerns (15:52) Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation (19:34) Energy, Climate, and Sustainability (24:39) Social Priorities and Final Thoughts   For more from The Conference Board:  C-Suite Outlook 2025: Seizing the Future  Committee for Economic Development (CED)  America in Perspective: Policy Priorities for 2025 

Consumer confidence is down for the second month in a row, with assessments of the present situation, current labor market conditions and business conditions all having deteriorated. Pessimism over future employment prospects seen in December continued into January, according to the latestConsumer Confidence Index® from The Conference Board, but the overall index remained in the same narrow range it has since 2022.    Join Erik Lundh, Senior Global Economist,and Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist of Global Indicators, both at The Conference Board, for their full conversation abouthow consumer sentiment could weigh on US economic growth and the global economy in 2025.    (00:32) Consumer Confidence Index Overview (01:37) Detailed Analysis of January's Consumer Confidence (05:00) Inflation and Consumer Expectations (06:00) Positive Insights from the Survey (11:02) Consumer Spending and Buying Plans (16:08) Global Economic Outlook (16:36) US Economic Forecast (19:20) European Economic Conditions (20:03) Emerging Markets Focus: India and China (21:21) Risks and Final Thoughts   For more from The Conference Board:  US Consumer Confidence Retreated in January  Download the full Consumer Confidence Survey Report 

Learn what the C-Suite Outlook 2025 tells us about priorities for marketing and communications leaders.     Nearly all marketing and communications leaders (95%) are already using AI, but there remain concerns about AI output quality and a lack of internal expertise. How can CMOs and CCOs continue to embrace AI in 2025, and what are the top priorities for these functional leaders?     Join Denise Dahlhoff, PhD, and guest Ivan Pollard, Center Leader for Marketing & Communications at The Conference Board, to learn about CMO/CCO investment priorities for 2025, the role of AI in change management, and the continued importance of sustainability.    (01:45) Global Perspectives on AI (02:25) AI Adoption and Usage Statistics (04:45) Marketing and Communication Investments (11:04) Internal Priorities and Change Management (14:11) External Pressure Factors (17:21) Skills for Future CMOs and CCOs (21:34) Sustainability and Regional Differences   For more from The Conference Board:  C-Suite Outlook 2025: Seizing the Future  2025: A Year In Preview  Marketing & Communications Skills Needed to Win in 2025 

Dive into our annual C-Suite survey and discover how leaders plan to grow revenue, use AI, and more.  The two biggest geopolitical risks for C-Suite leaders in 2025 are intensified trade wars and foreign cyberattacks. How do these business leaders plan to grow revenue and embrace AI while safeguarding against these active threats?  Join Steve Odland and guest Dana M. Peterson, chief economist and leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center at The Conference Board, to learn about internal and external company risks, how the C-Suite think about AI implementation, and why business leaders remain worried about a recession.     (00:29) Overview of the C Suite Outlook Survey (01:36) Top Line Results and CEO Concerns (04:05) Geopolitical and Economic Challenges (08:29) Regional Differences in Economic Sentiment (16:57) Strategies for Growth and Innovation (23:06) Leadership and Talent Retention (25:01) AI Implementation and Challenges (29:15) Human Capital and Workforce Productivity   For more from The Conference Board:  C-Suite Outlook 2025: Seizing the Future  2025: A Year In Preview  Global Economic Outlook 2025 to 2039: Opportunities, Caveats, and Uncertainties 

Today's financial services users don't need face time—in fact, 91% of Barclays' customer interactions are digital. How can financial institutions use product development to deliver AI-powered, customer-first experiences while remaining in compliance?     Join Ivan Pollard and guest Sean Murray, chief product officer at Barclays US Consumer Bank, to find out how Barclays uses generative AI, why the firm adopted agile methodology and design thinking, and how companies across industries should approach product development.     (01:44)    Evolution of Product Developmen (03:24)    Emerging Trends in Financial Service (06:49)    Impact of AI on Banking Product (16:59)    Ensuring Compliance in Rapid Tech Change (19:58)    Customer Centricity and Digital Experience (30:04)    Future-Proofing and Adaptation   For more from The Conference Board:  AI and Investor Relations: Practical Insights and Real-World Applications  Leading Through the AI Transformation: Event Insights  OpenAI's Game-Changer: ChatGPT Pro Takes the AI Assistant to New Heights 

Did you know that 86% of junior and midlevel marketers already use AI at work each week? What are the top use cases for AI in marketing, and how should CMOs incorporate AI into strategy?     Join Steve Odland and guest Ivan Pollard, Marketing & Communications Center leader at The Conference Board, to find out how marketers are currently using AI tools, what “agentic AI” means, and how AI will impact each of the 4 P's of marketing.     (00:40) AI in Marketing: A Historical Perspective (01:44) AI as a Tool, Not a Solution (03:08) Current AI Usage in Marketing (05:31) Generative AI in Creative Processes (09:24) Agentic AI: The Next Frontier (12:15) AI's Impact on the Four P's of Marketing (17:40) AI in Traditional and Social Media (26:01) Challenges and Future of AI in Marketing   For more from The Conference Board:  Leading Through the AI Transformation: Event Insights  AI for Marketing & Communications—the Update  Learning for the Future: Preparing Organizations and Workers for AI Disruption 

What is the biggest takeaway from the December Consumer Confidence Index® from The Conference Board? In short, the recent rebound in consumer confidence was not sustained in December, as consumers expressed discontent with inflation and future business conditions.    Join Mitchell Barnes and guest Dana Peterson, Chief Economist and Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center at The Conference Board, for their full conversation about how consumer sentiment could weigh on US economic growth and what's ahead for the labor market.    For more from The Conference Board:  US Consumer Confidence Pulled Back in December  Download the full Consumer Confidence Survey Report 

For three years running, CEOs and CHROs have rated employee attraction and retention as a top internal priority. How can employers optimize their total rewards programs to attract top talent while meeting business goals?     Join Steve Odland and guest Rita Meyerson, EdD, principal researcher for human capital at The Conference Board, to discover the many elements of total rewards, why employee recognition can enhance engagement, and how leaders should think about total rewards strategy.    (00:45) Defining Total Rewards (01:35) Components of Total Rewards (02:07) Importance of Attraction and Retention (05:50) Role of Flexibility in Total Rewards (09:14) Recognition as a Key Reward (15:20) Integrating Culture with Total Rewards (20:00) Diversity and Changing Workforce Needs (25:47) Leadership's Role in Total Rewards   For more from The Conference Board:  The Paramount Value of Total Rewards: Forward Strategies for CEOs and CHROs  The Evolving Total Rewards Landscape: Tactics to Attract and Retain Talent  US Salary Increase Budgets 2024-2025 

The price of bitcoin recently hit $88,000, yet it remains a speculative currency with few present-day commercial uses. Why is bitcoin so compelling to certain investors, and what is its potential for everyday use?      Join Steve Odland and guest Hollis Hart, former president of international franchise management at Citi and a senior fellow at The Conference Board's ESF Center, to learn why there's a finite amount of bitcoin available, the differences between bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, and how governments have responded to this new technology.     (00:22) Introduction to Cryptocurrencies (02:15) Bitcoin's Mechanics and Decentralization (05:26) Bitcoin's Supply and Market Dynamics (07:13) Commercial Use and Speculation (15:48) Ethereum and Other Cryptocurrencies (20:30) Blockchain Technology and Its Potential (27:25) Regulatory Concerns and Conclusion