Is the Economic Crisis Over? Fed’s Role to be Addressed in UA Economic Outlook Conference

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Indications are emerging that the country’s economic crisis is easing.The nation’s gross domestic product, or GDP, increased during the second quarter of 2009, and the stock market is performing better. Some consulting companies are offering advice on how to prepare for the rebound. The Federal Reserve Board will play a key role in keeping the economy on track if, indeed, a recovery is under way.

“That is why we are so fortunate to have Thomas Cunningham speak to us next month,” said Dr. Sam Addy, director of the Center for Business and Economic Research at The University of Alabama.

Cunningham, vice president and associate director of research for the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, will address “The Fed and the Post-Crisis Economy” at the Economic Outlook Conference 2010 Thursday, Jan. 14 at the Renaissance Montgomery hotel.

Cunningham is responsible for the operation of the research department, including budget and personnel planning, as well as oversight of the Atlanta Fed’s Economic Review.

The conference is presented by UA’s Center for Business and Economic Research of the Culverhouse College of Commerce. The conference will begin at 9 a.m. and conclude at 1:30 p.m. following lunch.

Addy and Nigel Gault, managing director of the North American Macroeconomic Group of HIS Global Insight, also will speak. Addy will focus on the state economy, while Gault will present “The United States Outlook.”

The registration fee of $150 is due Jan. 6 and includes lunch and a copy of the Alabama Economic Outlook 2010.  For more information, visit cber.cba.ua.edu, call 205/348-2944 or e-mail uacber@cba.ua.edu.