In our final episode of 2025, host Kristen Hallam is joined by S&P Global Market Intelligence economists Ken Wattret, Ben Herzon, Hanna Luchnikava-Schorsch, and Thea Fourie to unveil the top 10 economic insights shaping the outlook for 2026.

Discover how moderating inflation, shifting fiscal policies, and global trade dynamics are creating a delicate balance of tailwinds and headwinds across major economies. From the US avoiding recession and Western Europe's subdued growth, to China's pivot to domestic demand and India's resilience amid tariffs, this episode delivers actionable perspectives on emerging trends, risks, and opportunities.

Understand the potential impact of artificial intelligence, evolving monetary policies, currency shifts, and the state of sovereign debt—essential listening for anyone navigating the year ahead.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Top 10 Economic Insights 2026
• The Age of Agility: Key Themes for 2026
• Global Economic Outlook: November 2025

For S&P Global subscribers (login required):

• 2026: The age of agility
• Inflation indications

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Ken Wattret, Ben Herzon, Hanna Luchnikava-Schorsch, Thea Fourie
• Produced By: Debbie Taylor, Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun

In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam dives into the intricacies of U.S. consumer spending as the holiday season approaches. Joined by Michael Zdinak, Ph.D., a director in S&P Global's U.S. economics team, Kristen explores the current economic landscape following a recent government shutdown and its impact on vital economic data.

Kristen and Michael discuss the resilience of consumer spending—despite low consumer sentiment—highlighting the factors driving spending behaviors among different income groups. They analyze retail sales trends, the significance of Black Friday, and the growing share of online shopping in holiday sales.

Listeners will gain insights into inflation's effects on purchasing power and the expected growth in holiday sales, alongside a nuanced understanding of how consumers are navigating their financial realities this season. Tune in for a comprehensive overview of the U.S. economy as we head into the holidays.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• The Age of Agility: Key Themes for 2026
• Global Economic Outlook: November 2025
• Widening China import-export imbalance soaking up container capacity

For S&P Global subscribers (login required):

• 2026: The age of agility
• Inflation indications

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guest: Michael Zdinak
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun

In this episode of the Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam engages with economists from S&P Global Market Intelligence to unpack the U.S. economic outlook for 2026. The discussion explores key themes influencing growth, including the economic impact of artificial intelligence, evolving labor market dynamics, and the ongoing effects of tariffs on inflation and investment.

Listeners will gain insights into the team's optimistic projections for 2026, driven by reduced policy uncertainty and consumer spending bolstered by recent tax cuts. The economists also address potential headwinds to growth, such as high borrowing costs and the implications of a government shutdown on economic performance.

As the Federal Reserve navigates these challenges, the discussion explores monetary policy decisions, including expectations for rate cuts and the anticipated adjustments in response to inflationary pressures.

With expert analysis and forward-looking perspectives, this episode equips listeners with the knowledge to make informed decisions in a complex economic landscape.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• The Age of Agility: Key Themes for 2026
• Global Economic Outlook: November 2025
• Stablecoins Explained: A Comprehensive FAQ Guide to Digital Currency Stability

For S&P Global subscribers (login required):

• 2026: The age of agility
• Inflation indications
• US tariff plans

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Ben Herzon, Patrick Newport, Michael Zdinak, Lawrence Nelson
• Produced By: Debbie Taylor, Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun