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Global markets are under pressure as Intel weighs on the Dow. Wedbush's Matt Bryson explains. Plus, Amazon and Apple are also lower following their earnings reports. Clockwise Capital's James Cakmak discusses. And, the monthly jobs report comes with even higher stakes following a string of weak economic reports. The Conference Board's Steve Odland gives his expectations.
Nearly 3 million Americans are headed to the airport for Memorial Day Weekend, rivaling the record 2.9 million set last November. The Conference Board's Steve Odland lays out the key consumer trends to watch. Plus, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq are hovering near all-time highs, the Dow Transports is lagging this year. FreightWaves' Craig Fuller explains what's driving the slide. And, beyond Big Tech, a number of sectors are poised to drive the next wave of AI growth. Caret Group's Fred Hassan explains.
Steve Odland, CEO of The Conference Board, joins the show to discuss consumer confidence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Amazon says profit more than tripled during its most recent quarter. RBC's Brad Erickson and GraniteShares' Paul Marino dive into the results. Plus, the Fed is set to announce its latest monetary policy decision today. The New York Times' Jeanna Smialek and The Conference Board's Steve Odland lay out their expectations. And, investors are preparing for the new trading month as the S&P 500 comes off its worst month since September. Cetera's Gene Goldman and Payne Capital Management's Courtney Garcia discuss.
The US government is $34 trillion in debt and counting; in 10 years, interest payments alone are projected to be $1.6 trillion per year. These astronomical sums are leading to a crisis that could see the end of the US dollar as the “world's currency.” In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Joseph E. Kasputys, PhD, former US Navy Commander, CEO of Economic Ventures, and CED Trustee, joins President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss solutions to the US debt crisis and what the business landscape might look like if US debt continues to grow unchecked. Tune in to find out: · How will the US debt situation affect the world economy over the next decade? · How do Medicare and Social Security fit into this intricate puzzle, and what policy changes could bring the debt back down to an acceptable level? · What happens when markets lose faith in the dollar and the US can't finance its debt? For more Trusted Insights for What's AheadTM: · Read: US National Debt and Federal Budget Negotiations · Read: Record Debt Servicing Costs Weigh on US Fiscal Outlook · Watch: CED Policy Watch: Debt Matters: Finding an Affordable Way to Build Back Better
As the US labor shortage continues, organizations struggle to attract and retain talent. Those that leverage baby boomers—who still make up 20% of the workforce—tap into a valuable pool of experience. Organizations that write them off may lose competitive advantage. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Robin Erickson, Vice President, Human Capital, joins President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss how to make the most of boomer talent in an age-diverse workforce. Tune in to find out: How are baby boomers influencing current corporate strategies and work cultures? What innovative approaches are companies taking to retain and engage boomer talent? How can generational diversity be managed for business success? What strategies should CEOs employ to address age diversity and ageism in the workplace? For more Trusted Insights for What's AheadTM: Read: Baby Boomers Still Striving Listen: CEO Perspectives: The Generations, A View from a Baby Boomer
The Conference Board measure of CEO Confidence is at its highest level since 2019, marking a significant shift in business sentiment. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Dana Peterson, Chief Economist, joins President and CEO Steve Odland, both of The Conference Board, to discuss the latest results of the Measure of CEO Confidence™ and the C-Suite Outlook. They discuss why CEOs are positive and whether their concerns, including inflation, cost of debt, and interest rates, track with the economic outlook. Tune in to find out: · Why are CEOs more optimistic about the current economic climate? · How do they view the dynamics of the current labor market? · Despite optimism, why are some companies “standing in place,” waiting to see what happens before mobilizing capital? · What are the key economic concerns and opportunities CEOs are focusing on? For more Trusted Insights for What's AheadTM: · Read: US CEO Confidence · Read: The C-Suite Outlook · Watch: Economy Watch: The C-Suite Outlook 2024 · Access: The C-Suite Outlook 2024 Data Tool
What's top of mind for world leaders, and do their priorities sync with what CEOs are thinking? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Lori Esposito Murray, President of the Committee for Economic Development, joins President and CEO Steve Odland, The Conference Board, to report on the insights from Davos forum and how those dovetail with CEO views from our latest research. Tune in to find out: · How are world leaders thinking about the rise of generative AI and what are their concerns? · How are structural changes in the global economy, such as aging labor markets and deglobalization, affecting inflation rates and risk of recession worldwide? · What geopolitical risks could disrupt global trade and economic stability, and how might they be navigated? For more Trusted Insights for What's AheadTM: Read: Policy Backgrounder: Insights from Davos Read: C-Suite Outlook: Leading for Tomorrow: Winning Through Change and Disruption Read: 2024 Policy Priorities Listen: What Are CEOs' Top Priorities for 2024?
The world economy has not yet reached peak GHG emissions. Achieving net zero by 2050 will require dramatic reductions in emissions, but carbon removal technology is in its infancy and still too costly. What advancements could help get us to net zero, and what's at stake for business? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Alex Heil, Senior Economist, joins President and CEO Steve Odland, both of The Conference Board, to discuss carbon removal technology and implications for the C-Suite. Tune in to find out: · How do carbon removal, direct air capture, and sequestration technologies work? · What are the implications for businesses and CEOs in the context of carbon reduction and carbon capture technologies? · What are the costs and energy demands of these carbon capture technologies—Are they feasible for businesses now? · How can we quickly scale up carbon removal? · How does buying carbon offsets work? What do leaders need to know about the process? For more Trusted Insights for What's AheadTM: · Read: Biodiversity as a Cornerstone of Corporate Environmental Strategy · Read: Too Much Sun? Heavy Focus on Solar Might Create Volatile US Electricity Markets
Our latest C-Suite Outlook 2024 survey results show that an economic downturn is still a top concern for both CEOs and CMOs. Yet, CMOs are optimistic, saying they can still drive growth in this environment. What strategies and investments are CMOs planning to use to achieve this—and do they differ from the CEO view? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Ivan Pollard, Center Leader, Marketing & Communications, joins President and CEO Steve Odland, both of The Conference Board, to discuss the survey results and the implications for the marketing & communications landscape in 2024. Tune in to find out: What's the CEO perspective on driving growth in 2024—and what role will marketing play? What investments do CEOs and CMOs believe are needed to drive this growth? How are the CEO and CMO envisioning AI's role in these efforts? What impact do they foresee for their organizations? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: Read: C-Suite Outlook 2024: Leading for Tomorrow Access our hub: AI—Marketing & Communications
What's keeping CEOs and CHROs up at night these days? More than 1,200 C-Suite executives told us in the annual C-Suite Outlook survey by The Conference Board. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Diana Scott, Center Leader of the US Human Capital Center, joins President and CEO Steve Odland, both of The Conference Board, to discuss the results—and the implications for human capital. For 25 years, the C-Suite Outlook survey has served as a pulse-check on the challenges and opportunities the world's top business leaders are facing—and their strategies for addressing them. Tune in to find out: Where are CEOs and CHROs aligned on the issues impacting business in 2024? And where are they not? Attracting and retaining talent remains the number-one internal focus for both CEO and CHROs. What's different in 2024—and what strategies will CEOs and CHROs use to meet this challenge? How is the economic climate influencing CEOs' and CHROs' focus on human capital, especially regarding labor shortages and higher labor costs? Where do CEOs and CHROs want to invest to ensure growth in 2024? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: Read: Leading for Tomorrow: Winning Through Change and Disruption Attend: 2024: A Year in Preview
What's keeping CEOs up at night these days? More than 1,200 C-Suite executives told us in the annual C-Suite Outlook survey by The Conference Board. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Dana Peterson, Chief Economist and Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, joins President and CEO Steve Odland, both of The Conference Board, to discuss the C-Suite Outlook 2024. For 25 years, the C-Suite Outlook survey has served as a pulse-check to understand what challenges and opportunities the world's top business leaders are facing—and their strategies for addressing them. Tune in to find out: · What are the biggest issues for CEOs going into 2024? · Geopolitics was a key theme in the survey -- what were the greatest concerns among CEOs globally? · How prepared are CEOs and C-Suite executives for the next big crisis? · What do CEOs plan to do to encourage growth this year? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: · Read: Leading for Tomorrow: Winning Through Change and Disruption · Attend: 2024: A Year in Preview
The days of viewing ESG as a separate compliance function are gone. CEOs are recognizing that sustainability directly impacts a company's long-term success—and they're moving toward embedding ESG into core business strategy. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Paul Washington, Executive Director, Environmental, Social and Governance Center, joins President and CEO Steve Odland, both of The Conference Board, to discuss the evolution of the CEO's role and why CEOs should take the “helm” of ESG strategy. Tune in to find out: · What has shifted in today's ESG landscape, and what are the key trends? · Why does current business environment involve a more comprehensive approach to ESG that balances multiple stakeholders' interests, including customers, employees, suppliers, and the broader community? · What's involved in taking a proactive approach to ESG, rather than a reactive one? · How can CEOs look beyond compliance to capture business opportunities? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: Read: CEOs at the Helm of ESG: Leading the Sustainability Transformation Read: Building a Sustainability Culture Access: Sustainability Disclosure Practices
About 52% of the world's GDP is directly or indirectly dependent on biodiversity, and so maintaining biodiversity is an important part of business strategy and addressing climate change. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Paul Washington, Executive Director of the ESG Center at The Conference Board, joins President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss biodiversity and its importance for sustainability, including business sustainability. Tune in to find out: · What is biodiversity, and why does it matter? · How does biodiversity impact climate change, and why is it essential for slowing or even reversing the warming of the planet? · How does biodiversity affect various industries like agriculture and medicine, and why is it important to maintain biodiversity in these areas? · What is the economic impact of biodiversity, both directly and indirectly, and why should companies focus on biodiversity as a critical aspect of their sustainability efforts? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: · Read: Biodiversity as a Cornerstone of Corporate Environmental Strategy · Visit our hub: ESG Risks and Opportunities
Corporations used to consider themselves as having one constituent: the shareholder. That has changed. Engaging with the communities where corporations have operations, where their supply chains are located, and with society in general, is critical to be effective in today's business climate. In this episode of CEO Perspectives Jeff Hoffman, the Institute Leader of Corporate Citizenship & Philanthropy at the ESG Center, joins President and CEO Steve Odland, both of The Conference Board, to discuss the evolution of the function and what it takes to align initiatives with the business in complex political and social contexts. Tune in to find out: • How has corporate citizenship evolved over time? • What are the biggest challenges in navigating the complex landscape of social issues and political polarization? • How can companies ensure their corporate citizenship efforts are strategic and aligned with their overall business goals? • How can companies leverage their resources and influence to make a meaningful impact? • What are the key trends shaping the future of corporate citizenship and philanthropy? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: · Read From Crisis to Opportunity: Corporate Citizenship and Philanthropy in 2023 · Read Corporate Citizenship in a Time of Uncertainty · Visit our ESG Center
Running a business or organization takes stamina, grit and determination. So does running for office. What does it take to do both at the same time? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Wendi Taylor Nations, EVP & Partner, Hawthorne Strategy Group, and former candidate for Chicago City Council, joins President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss her choice to run for Chicago alderman. Tune in to find out: · What does it take to run for local office? · How can a newcomer set themselves apart in a crowded candidate pool? · And how much does personal experience bear on one's ability to win an election? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: · Read Corporate Citizenship & Philanthropy
Inspiring People, Inspiring Journeys, is a podcast series, launched in 2023 and moderated by Sanja Haas, Chairwoman of the Advisory Board for the European Human Capital Center at The Conference Board. Each episode so far featured an informal conversation with a CHRO about their individual journeys and reflections on their role. In this last episode for the season, Sanja sits down with Steve Odland, CEO of The Conference Board, to talk about his journey and in particular his thinking on the CEO-CHRO Partnership today and in the future. Steve talks about his own journey and explains how the CEOs role has changed in the past couple of decades. Unlike 10-15 years ago, today a successful CEO needs to manage and take care of multiple stakeholders (vs previously only shareholders). Steve explains that also the role of HR has pivoted from being transactional to that of a Human Resource function which is the “caretaker of human assets” crucial for the success of an organization. Steve shares with us that he has always relied on his CHROs as close and trusted business advisors, the one person a CEO can turn to and ask, “what do you think?”. When asked whether a CHRO can become a CEO, Steve says this is possible, however a crucial prerequisite is for the CHRO to also experience a line role before becoming CEO. Finally, he shares a very inspiring thought and suggestion to our audience: to think about our aspirations and about the concept that if they are big enough, we can never outperform them.
As world leaders wrap up COP 28, the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference, limiting the rise in average global temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius is a top priority. What is the role of the private sector in helping achieve this goal? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Lori Esposito Murray, President of the Committee for Economic Development, just returned from the event, joins President and CEO Steve Odland, both of The Conference Board, to discuss the mix of initiatives that may affect the private sector: renewables, tech innovation, carbon markets, and more. Tune in to find out: How does the involvement of business leaders contribute to the goals of COP 28 in addressing climate change? What role did major oil-producing countries, like the UAE, play in the discussions at COP 28? What were the key discussions regarding technology innovations, such as AI and quantum computing, and their impact on addressing climate change? How do commitments from countries like the United States to triple nuclear energy capacity by 2050 contribute to carbon reduction? How will effective carbon markets play a part? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: Road to COP28: Business Takeaways from the UN's Latest Climate Change December 6, 2023: Insights from COP28, and More Biggest Companies Increased GHG Emissions by Just 3% from 2021 to 2022 Smaller US Companies are Increasingly Embracing Renewable Energy
The HR function was an early adopter of AI, such as machine learning for sifting through resumes. Now companies are using it to predict skills needed in the future or the likelihood of employee turnover. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Diana Scott, Center Leader of the US Human Capital Center, joins President and CEO Steve Odland, both of The Conference Board, to discuss whether it's possible—or advisable—to take the “human” out of human resources. Tune in to find out: How might sentient HR be used in HR in the future? What should executives watch out for when using AI tools in HR? How can AI become discriminatory? What safeguards should companies put in place? HR decisions are highly sensitive, including performance management. How can AI play a role? What should be considered when developing policy for AI use in an organization? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: Access our hub AI for HR Read Artificial Intelligence for Talent Acquisition Watch Addressing Employment Discrimination in the Use of AI
Our latest survey shows that 82% of junior marketers and 62% of senior marketers are using AI tools. Most are using it for increasing productivity and getting started on projects—not for finished work. How does AI help the marketing function right now and what's its potential for the future? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Ivan Pollard, Center Leader, Marketing and Communications, joins President and CEO Steve Odland, both of The Conference Board, to discuss what's ahead for AI in marketing. Tune in to find out: How are senior marketers using AI? What is AI's potential for improving customer service and personalized messaging? What are the challenges marketers may face when using AI? What are some ethical considerations for responsible use of AI? How can leaders get up to speed quickly on AI? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: Access our hub AI: The Next Transformation Read Leveraging Artificial Intelligence in Marketing and Consumer Experience Read A Simplified Guide to How AI Works
The Consumer Confidence Index bounced back in November after three straight monthly declines as consumers' expectations – and spending – continue to improve. Still, predictions for slower economic growth and outright recession in 2024 abound. What does it all mean for the global economy? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Dana Peterson, the Chief Economist and Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center at The Conference Board, joins President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss the latest Consumer Confidence Index and what it portends for 2024. Tune in to find out: · What big change did we see in the latest Consumer Confidence Index? · Consumer spending is up, but much of it is on credit. What does this portend for the economy? · How much more can consumer spending expand? · How will the global economy grow in 2024? Will we see a recession next year? · What potential black or grey swans could we see in 2024? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: · Read: The Consumer Confidence Index for November 2023
Rural areas account for 20% of the total US population—and 97% of the country's landmass—but only about 5% of large philanthropic grants are directed to nonurban regions. Why is this? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Paul Washington, Executive Director of the ESG Center at The Conference Board, joins President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss the ESG Center's latest report on corporate citizenship in rural communities. Tune in to find out: · What exactly defines a “rural area” in the United States? · US company headquarters are mostly in cities; how can companies justify donating in areas where they have no presence? · What benefits can companies expect when they invest more in rural communities? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: · Read: Investing in Rural America: Corporate Citizenship and Rural Communities · Read: Rural Diversity: The Untapped Opportunity for Corporate America
Medicare costs are expected to jump from 3.8% of GDP in 2023 to 6% in just 10 years. Why is this happening? And what does it mean for everyone seeking health care in the US? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Lori Esposito Murray, President of the Committee for Economic Development of The Conference Board, joins President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss how Medicare started, how it has evolved and what we can do to keep it running. Tune in to find out: · How did Medicare come about, and how does it work? · Why does Medicare's cost as a part of the federal budget continue to grow? · Could increasing market competition lower costs and improve health care benefits? · Why should everyone, not just those nearing or at retirement, care about this issue? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: · Read the CED report Health Care Policy After the Pandemic · Watch the on-demand webcast CED Policy Watch: Health Policy After the Pandemic “Today, Medicare program costs in fiscal year 2023 are about 12% of the total federal government spending; that's about 3.8% of GDP. In 10 years this is expected to become 6% of GDP. So that's huge.” -- Lori Esposito Murray
How does a company develop a foundation and plan for giving back to the community? Companies across the country and in every industry are contemplating how to best train their current and future workforce, aligning their values and assets to help drive change in our society. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, David Etzwiler, CEO, Siemens Foundation, joins President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss how companies can think strategically about how to make their biggest impact. Tune in to find out: · What is the best way to develop workforce training programs? · How can companies reduce health disparities in their communities? · What can companies do to build sustainability efforts into their planning? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: · Read: From Crisis to Opportunity: Corporate Citizenship and Philanthropy in 2023 · Attend: 2023 Corporate Citizenship Summit “The fact of the matter is, growth in the labor market is slowing, when it comes to white males and older white males. And so you have to look at your practices -- as a society, as an employer, as an academician -- and ask yourself, how do I appeal to a different market? How do I make sure that women understand these jobs are out here [and] what the value of them is? How do I think through how childcare or transportation might have to be better developed? How do I think of community communities of color, and how they perceive or don't perceive access to these jobs?” -- David Etzwiler, CEO, Siemens Foundation “We're very narrowly focused within workforce training, those jobs that require more than a high school degree, less than a college degree and strong technical skills. … These are a floor to a career, not a ceiling to a career. They're really an opportunity to advance to the middle class and beyond.” -- David Etzwiler, CEO, Siemens Foundation
Being a CEO is like playing tennis against 10 people at once. That's the take of one former CEO who now leads and coaches C-Suite executives. When there are a million things flying at you at once, how do you delegate, negotiate and manage? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Jack Stahl, co-founder of CNEXT, joins The Conference Board President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss the five key components of successful C-Suite leadership. Tune in to find out: · What three key tasks does every CEO need to deliver on? · How can leaders encourage workers to effectively use their time in-office? · Are informal conversations better than formal training programs? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: · Read content on Coaching, Mentorship & Sponsorship · Access the Global Executive Coaching Survey 2023 (Member only) “Being a CEO, or even a senior leader inside a company, is kind of like playing tennis against 10 people at once. Things are coming at you so fast, and so furious, so having a way to think about the work that you do can be very powerful.” -- Jack Stahl, co-founder of CNEXT
The Conference Board expects global growth to slow to 2.5%, well below the 3.3% average prior to the pandemic. Declining contributions from labor and capital are mainly responsible for the downward trend. But new technologies, investment in people, and high productivity could improve growth. What should leaders know about operating in this environment? In this episode, Dana Peterson, Chief Economist and Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, joins Steve Odland, President and CEO, both of The Conference Board, to discuss the outlook and economic conditions around the globe. Tune in to find out: · What are the upsides and downsides to the outlook over the next decade? · How are the three inputs to the global economy—labor, capital, and productivity—shifting and impacting growth? What will this “mix” look like in the decade ahead? · What trends are on the horizon—globally and within regions? · Which economies will drive growth over the next decade? · How might the Israel-Hamas war effect the MENA region economy, and consequently, the rest of the world? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead™: · Read: Global Economic Outlook 2024 to 2036 · Read: Economic Forecast for the US Economy · Visit: The Global Recession Hub: Navigating the Economic Storm (continuously updated) · Visit: Data Central for forecasts and long-term projections
With recent rating downgrades of banks heavily exposed to commercial real estate (CRE)—and office space in particular—concerns about the US banking sector are resurfacing. The unprecedented shift to flexible work has not only prompted many companies to seek a smaller footprint but also spaces with greater energy efficiency for sustainability and modern amenities to lure workers back to the office. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Erin McLaughlin, Senior Economist in the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, joins Steve Odland, President and CEO, both of The Conference Board, to discuss what this shift and plummeting CRE values may mean for banking, lending, and economy in general. Tune in to find out: · How have business conditions changed in the wake of hybrid work arrangements? · Small and mid-size banks hold the most CRE assets; what could this mean for their future or for M&A activity? · What is the Fed doing to prevent bank failures? · What are the potential ripple effects throughout the economy—and the urban landscape? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead™: · Read: 2023 Banking Crisis: US By the Numbers, 6-Month Update · Watch: Economy Watch: The 2024 Global Economic Outlook
The Conference Board Measure of CEO Confidence™ for Q4 shows that US CEOs are less optimistic about the economy than they were last quarter. So how should leaders be thinking about the opportunities and risks in the current economy? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Dana M Peterson, Chief Economist, joins Steve Odland, President and CEO, both of The Conference Board, to discuss what's top-of-mind for CEOs right now—and what this could mean to all leaders thinking about strategy in the current economic climate. Tune in to find out: · CEOs say they're planning to increase investment. Does this make sense in the current economy? · Are CEOs still expecting a recession? · What does this mean for the labor and wages? · How are CEOs prioritizing risks? · What's in store for future interest rate hikes or cuts? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead™: · See the survey results: CEO Confidence Dips in Q4 · Read: The Global Economic Outlook · Read: US Consumer Confidence Fell Again in September
The advent of “Killer AI” could mean the use of artificial intelligence—by design or through unintended consequences—that directly leads to physical harm or death of human beings. What should business leaders know about this potential? In this episode, Nathan Summers, AI Research Analyst with the Luxembourg Tech School, and Dr. Sergio Coronado, Professor at the University of Luxembourg, join Steve Odland, CEO of The Conference Board, to discuss their recent report, On Defining Killer AI and the potential impacts for business and society. Tune in to find out: · How could AI could harm businesses and society? · What financial impacts should businesses consider? · What steps should businesses take to ensure the safety of this emerging capability? · AI is already affecting mental health in virtual systems like social media—could it cause deaths? · Should the government get involved? What could be the consequences of government involvement? · Should the EU AI legislation or other frameworks be used as models for regulating AI to prevent harm? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead™: Read: Explainability in AI: The Key to Trustworthy AI Decisions Visit: AI: The Next Transformation: Your guide to real-world application
AI has had a long evolution but only recently has shown a significant leap. Leaders are now playing “catch up” with the ramifications. In this episode, Joel Trammell, CEO, author and educator, joins Steve Odland, CEO of The Conference Board, to discuss how leaders should think about AI's impact on their business—and their own roles as leaders. Tune in to find out: · How might the role of CEOs and leaders evolve with AI—and what will become of human judgment and adaptability? · How can CEOs use AI to augment their effectiveness as managers and leaders? · Why should AI be seen as an iterative transformation not an overnight revolution? · Why should CEOs view AI as an enhancement or augmentation of human capabilities? · What could AI mean for a shift in skill sets in demand and the “war for talent”? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead™: Read: Explainability in AI: The Key to Trustworthy AI Decisions Visit: AI: The Next Transformation: Your guide to real-world application
Companies have significant opportunities to transform and generate more value with AI. But many don't know where to begin. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Brian Evergreen, founder and CEO of The Profitable Good Company, joins Steve Odland, President and CEO of The Conference Board, to discuss the next the evolution of AI and how leaders should be thinking about their AI strategy. Tune in to find out: · What is autonomous transformation, and how is it different from digital transformation? · Should you revolve an AI strategy around a single service, like ChatGPT? · What are the three prongs that every AI strategy needs? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead™: · Visit our AI Hub: The Next Transformation, Your guide to real-world application · Read: A Simplified Guide to How AI Works
The BRICS bloc recently doubled its membership and expanded its global reach—especially in the Middle East. Will it succeed as a counterweight to the West—and the US dollar? What are the possible impacts on the global economy and corporations? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Dr. Lori Esposito Murray, President of the Committee for Economic Development, the public policy center of The Conference Board, and Dana Peterson, our Chief Economist, join Steve Odland, President and CEO, to discuss the impact of BRICS—and what it may mean for business and the global economy. Could BRICS become independent from the West? Is this a new cold war? What does this bloc mean for the primacy of the US dollar for trade? For business operations? How much food and global energy will the expanded bloc control? How might access to critical materials—such as rare earth minerals or advanced chips—be impacted? What challenges might global corporations face? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead™: Read: CED Policy Backgrounder: BRICS Summit—Deepening the Divide Read: CED Policy Backgrounder: Putin-Erdoğan Meeting on Grain Exports Read: Economy Watch | China
Forty-three percent of executives surveyed by The Conference Board expect ESG backlash to increase. Despite bumpy waters ahead, ESG backlash can be a clarifying moment for companies, prompting them to reevaluate their ESG strategy, priorities, and commitments. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Paul Washington, Executive Director, Environmental, Social & Governance Center, joins Steve Odland, President and CEO, both of The Conference Board, to discuss ESG backlash—and what organizations should do about it. Tune in to find out: • The main sources of ESG backlash, according to our latest research • How you can avoid pendulum swings in your organization's approach to ESG • Why a two-fold approach of a fact-based business case and broad communications offers the best solution • What to focus on to engage the board and senior management in a candid discussion without polarization For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead™: • Read: How Companies Can Address ESG Backlash • Read: Four Ways Directors Can Steer a Steady Course Amid ESG Backlash • Watch: Values to Value: How to Win with ESG Strategy, Communication, and Reporting for Investors
In companies around the world, there's a massive shift taking place: the mandated return of workers to the workplace. But employees are hesitant after experiencing a “taste of freedom” with remote work during the pandemic. What are the pros and cons of returning to the office? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Diana Scott, US Human Capital Center Leader, joins Steve Odland, President and CEO, both of The Conference Board, to discuss the dynamics of the move back to the office and what CHROs and CEOs need to consider to maintain culture and productivity. Tune in to discover: · What are the benefits and drawbacks of hybrid work? · Are some jobs better suited to hybrid and remote work than others? · How can CHROs lead hybrid teams effectively? · How is productivity defined, and how do we measure it in remote and hybrid environments? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: · Read The Reimagined Workplace 2023: Striking a Delicate Balance · Access the latest insights on the Future of Work
The Conference Board announced that the Consumer Confidence Index® fell this month, erasing back-to-back increases in June and July. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Steve Odland, The Conference Board President and CEO, and Dana Peterson, Chief Economist at The Conference Board, sit down to discuss what this means for the labor market, inflation and wider US economy. Tune in to find out: · How are consumers feeling about inflation and the job market in August? · What is consumer sentiment around the stock market? · How are consumers' balance sheets doing, specifically their savings? · To what extent are CEOs currently expecting a recession? · What can we expect for global growth later this year and into next year? For more Trusted Insights for What's Ahead: · Read the August Consumer Confidence Index · Access the latest insights on Navigating the Economic Storm
Marketing and communications teams are harnessing the new opportunities presented by AI. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Denise Dahlhoff, Senior Researcher in Marketing and Communications, and Steve Odland, President and CEO, both of The Conference Board, sit down to discuss widespread use and experimentation with AI in marketing and communications as well as the concerns that are arising. Tune in to discover: The future impact of AI in the eyes of marketing and communications professionals, based on our latest research What are the greatest concerns about AI's use? Why marketers appear to be making greater use of AI than communications executives How AI helps productivity and creativity How can AI help with development of strategy Why are midlevel/junior marketers at the forefront of adopting AI in their work, ahead of senior marketers? To learn more, access the research report, AI in Marketing & Communications: Boosting Productivity—and Creativity, Too? here.
Nearly half of CEOs around the globe see the transition to renewable energy as good for business. But how can companies start building environmental and social considerations into their strategic business planning? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, The Conference Board President and CEO, Steve Odland, and Paul Washington, Executive Director of the ESG Center, address this issue. Tune in to find out: § What are the main causes of climate change? How much is driven by natural events and how much by human activity? § How can companies help cut emissions while maintaining a developed, global economy? § Why should firms focus on near-term emissions targets as well as those farther out? How can lower emissions translate into lower costs? § Why should companies no longer address climate change and sustainability as different silos? Access ESG essentials, including key terminology and how boards are addressing this topic, here
In this episode of CEO Perspectives, The Conference Board President and CEO Steve Odland speaks with with Dr. Lori Esposito Murray, President of the Committee for Economic Development, the public policy center of The Conference Board (CED). The conversation centered around CED's insights and recommendations for the US to attain its goal of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Tune in to find out: What are the necessary investments for achieving a decarbonized economy by 2050? What are the potential economic opportunities of achieving carbon neutrality? Alternatively, what are the consequences of not reaching this target? What steps can the public and private sectors take—both separately and in collaboration—to achieve net-zero emissions? What should be the top priority of the US when it comes to the energy transition? What role should nuclear power play in the energy transition?
The Conference Board announced that the Consumer Confidence Index® increased this month to the highest level in two years. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, The Conference Board President and CEO Steve Odland and Dana Peterson, Chief Economist at The Conference Board, sit down to discuss what this means for the US economy. Tune in to find out: How were consumers feeling in July? Are they still signaling a recession? What do we need to achieve a soft landing? What is likely to affect consumer spending in the months ahead? What can we expect for US GDP later this year and into next year? How many more rate hikes can we expect from the Fed? How are the rest of the world's economies?
The economic outlook for emerging markets has shifted: What are the prospects over the short and long term? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Steve Odland, President and CEO, and Klaas de Vries, Senior Economist, both of The Conference Board, sit down to discuss what's ahead for this critical engine of global growth. Tune in to find out: · What explains the better-than-expected performance so far? · What's the outlook for emerging markets for the remainder of 2023 and into 2024? · How exposed are emerging markets to the prospect of a US recession? · Which emerging markets are at risk of recession—and which are poised for growth? Read the latest data on The Conference Board Economy Watch: Emerging Markets View for July 2023.
Do you have the financial know-how to make strategic and informed decisions for your organization? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Maria Doughty, President and CEO of The Chicago Network, joined The Conference Board President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss the importance of financial acumen in the C-suite. Tune in to find out: Why is financial acumen a key part of development for leadership positions? What does it mean to have financial acumen? What are the risks of not having financial literacy as a business leader? How can you develop more financial expertise?
Does your organization have an inclusive pipeline of capable leaders who are ready to execute the business strategy? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Cheryl Stokes, CEO of CNEXT, an organization that helps to develop and advance high-impact leaders, joined President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss succession planning. Tune in to find out: What is succession planning and why is it important? What are the elements of a good succession plan? Why should diversity and inclusion be a critical part of your talent pipeline and succession planning? What should organizations assess when looking for a candidate? Who is accountable for succession planning? How does succession planning differ from leadership development?
The capabilities of AI continue to rapidly evolve, with major implications for the workforce and workplace. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Rebecca Ray, Executive Vice President of Human Capital at The Conference Board, joined President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss AI's role in HR—and HR's role in overseeing the use of AI. Tune in to find out: What is AI—and what is it not? What are some ways that AI can be used by the HR function? What are the implications of using more and more advanced AI in the HR space? What is the role of HR in the governance of AI throughout a company? What risks and rewards should business leaders keep in mind when adopting AI at their organizations?
The Gulf serves as a key source of oil for the world. But as the climate and geopolitics change, how is this region evolving? In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Hisham Al Razzuqi, former CEO of Gulf Investment Corporation and a Global Counsellor for the Middle East at The Conference Board, joined President and CEO Steve Odland to discuss the state of affairs in the Gulf. Tune in to find out: How has the Gulf benefited from the wealth generated from oil? How sustainable is the reliance on oil in the region? How are the Gulf countries diversifying their economies? How has the war in Ukraine affected the Gulf? What is China's current impact on the Gulf? What is the Iranian influence in the region?
The Conference Board announced that the Consumer Confidence Index® ticked down for the month of May. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, The Conference Board President and CEO Steve Odland and Erik Lundh, Principal Economist at The Conference Board, sit down to discuss what this means for the US economy. Tune in to find out: How do the current outlook and expectations differ, and what does that say about the likelihood and timing of a recession? What effect is inflation having on consumer confidence and who is feeling it the most? What can we expect from the Fed going forward? Is the job market weakening, and if so, how much? How are the debt ceiling discussions affecting consumer confidence?
In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Chuck Mitchell, Senior Director of Content Quality, joins Steve Odland, President and CEO, both of The Conference Board, to discuss Chuck's personal experience as a member of the baby boomer generation. Tune in to find out: What were the economic pressures that perhaps made “boomers” more goal-oriented and competitive than other generations? What kinds of anxieties resulted from their experiences—from fallout shelters, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and fear of nuclear holocaust to fierce workplace competition? How did shifts in the media landscape—from the definitive news voice of Walter Cronkite to the rise of the internet and alternative sources—affect their perspective? What happened to this generation's idealism as they matured?
In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Katie Plotkin, Chief of US Member Development, joins Steve Odland, President and CEO, both of The Conference Board, to discuss her experience as a member of Gen X and manager of different generations. Tune in to find out: How might Gen Xers be overshadowed, “sandwiched” between Baby Boomers and Millennials? How are Gen Xers the “peacekeeping generation,” navigating between two much larger generations? What are the reasons why Gen Xers may not be very vocal? How did events in the 80s and 90s—from the explosion of the Challenger to 9/11—instill a sense of caution in this generation?
In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Rebecca Ray, Executive Vice President, Human Capital, joins Steve Odland, President and CEO, both of The Conference Board, to discuss multiple generations in the workplace. Tune in to find out: How do different generations and their unique perspectives impact the workforce and the workplace? Why is flexibility key for attracting and retaining employees from different generations? What are different generations looking for in their career development trajectories? How can leaders maximize knowledge transfer from the baby boomer generation to younger generations in the workplace? Why should regional differences, personal experience, and small differences in cohorts make leaders wary of drawing easy generalizations about generations?
In this episode of CEO Perspectives, Ivan Pollard, Leader of the Marketing and Communications Center, joins Steve Odland, President and CEO, both of The Conference Board, to discuss marketing to multiple generations. Tune in to find out: Do the fundamentals of marketing remain the same across generations? How can marketers exploit differences and similarities between generations? Does mass marketing still have a role to play? Why do marketing messages today function more like a “neural network” than a one-way transmission to a target? Are there shared events or universal experiences that marketers can still tap into across generations?
In this episode of CEO Perspectives, The Conference Board President and CEO Steve Odland conduct an interview about human generations with a non-human—ChatGPT, the language model created by OpenAI. Tune in to find out AI's “thoughts” on these questions: What risks does AI pose to human generations? What are the key characteristics of each human generation? How did each generation get its name? What events define all human generations—from an AI perspective?