The 2026 Market Outlook: Economic Resilience or Economic Recession?

In 2026, South Carolina’s economic momentum has slowed. Despite low unemployment, positive growth in most industrial sectors, and a record high stock market, new economic headwinds have emerged that threaten to stall economic growth heading into 2027. This presentation will address how national economic pressures - including inflation, tariffs, and Federal Reserve interest rate policy - are specifically impacting South Carolina's economy and the extent to which Lexington's strong growth trends can be expected to hold up in the face of these headwinds. Dr. Von Nessen's presentation is one you cannot afford to miss! Seats are limited, and interest across the Midlands is high. Register today to secure your seat and gain an insider's view of South Carolina’s economic horizon! Schedule: 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. - Registration & Networking 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. - Program & Luncheon Lunch Provided by Scott Hall Catering & Event Design Corporate Sponsorships: Companies are invited to become Corporate Sponsors: Palmetto Sponsor (Full Table) - $1,000 • Reserved seating for 8 guests (1 table) • Company logo on event-specific communication and signage • Company logo recognition on the program • Publicity includes logo recognition on Chamber’s website and in all email communication • Social media marketing Crescent Sponsor (Half Table) - $550 • Reserved seating for 4 guests • Company logo on event-specific communication and signage • Company logo recognition on the program • Publicity includes logo recognition on Chamber’s website and in all email communication Wren Sponsor - $325 • Reserved seating for 2 guests • Business name on event-specific communication and signage, including the program • Publicity includes company name recognition on Chamber’s website and in all email communication To sign up as a corporate event sponsor, contact Jasmine Hoveyda, Programs and Events Director at [email protected] or call (803) 359-6113, ext. 102. Registration is available online for General Admission tickets. General Admission Tickets: Shareholder Tickets - $50 Non-Shareholder Tickets - $65 Table of 8 - $400 Presented by: About The Presenter: The Lexington Chamber is proud to welcome Dr. Joseph C. Von Nessen as our featured keynote speaker for the upcoming Business Over Lunch program. Dr. Von Nessen is a research economist at the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina and one of the state's foremost economic authorities. A leading expert in regional forecasting and housing economics, his work bridges national policy, state trends, and local business impact. Dr. Von Nessen prepares USC's annual statewide economic forecast, serves on the advisory committee for the South Carolina Board of Economic Advisors, and regularly briefs the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. His research guides major private and public organizations—including Boeing, Michelin, BlueCross BlueShield, and the U.S. Department of Defense—navigating complex market shifts. Whether analyzing inflation, trade, housing, or regional growth, Dr. Von Nessen delivers actionable insights business leaders rely on. About the Lexington Chamber & Visitors Center: The Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center is an accredited chamber dedicated to advancing economic prosperity through business advocacy, education, leadership development, workforce initiatives, and meaningful member engagement. For more than 65 years, the Chamber has served hundreds of businesses of every size, offering services to assist them in creating a more prosperous and thriving community. To learn more about the Chamber and the Lexington area, visit www.lexingtonsc.org. Connect with the Lexington Chamber & Visitors Center on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lexingtonscchamber/ Instagram: http://bit.ly/lexscinsta