In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam engages in an insightful discussion with Ben Herzon, co-head of US Economics at S&P Global Market Intelligence. They explore the complexities of economic forecasting in turbulent times, focusing on how to differentiate between signal and noise in economic data. Ben shares his expertise on the significance of the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) as a leading indicator for economic trends, particularly its role in predicting industrial production and GDP.

The conversation also explores the impact of tariffs on inflation and economic growth, highlighting the resilience of the US economy amid recent challenges. Ben discusses the factors contributing to the growth outlook, including recent budget legislation, federal spending, and inventory management by businesses.

Additionally, they address the risks to economic growth, such as potential increases in tariffs, inflation surprises, and the implications of a government shutdown. The episode concludes with a look at how scenario analysis is used to navigate uncertainties in economic forecasting, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the current economic landscape.

Tune in for a deep dive into the dynamics shaping the US economy and the tools used to forecast its future.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Global Economic Outlook: September 2025
• Picture This: Company Sentiment on Tariffs Turns More Negative in Earnings Calls
• The US Home Improvement Market: Trends and Challenges Ahead

Credits:

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

In this insightful episode of The Decisive, host Kristen Hallam leads a comprehensive discussion on the current landscape of emerging markets, exploring the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead as we approach 2026. Joined by a panel of experts from S&P Global Market Intelligence, the conversation probes the economic resilience of developed versus emerging markets, the impact of trade dynamics and tariffs, and the role of technological advancements in shaping growth trajectories.

Listeners will gain valuable insights from this episode, which is taken from our Sept. 10 client webinar. Learn about the performance of key emerging economies, including India, as well as the implications of geopolitical shifts on global supply chains. The panel, featuring Thea Fourie, Hanna Luchnikava-Schorsch, and Shuchita Shukla, also highlights investment opportunities in sectors such as digital infrastructure, green energy, and critical minerals, while addressing the effects of U.S. tariffs and regional reshoring strategies.

As the episode unfolds, the experts discuss the importance of innovation and technology adoption, particularly in the Asia Pacific region, and examine how emerging markets can leverage these trends for sustainable growth. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of the evolving economic landscape and what it means for businesses and investors in the coming years.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Global Economic Outlook: September 2025
• Picture This: Mainland China Launches Review of US Semiconductor Exports
• Country Risk Month Ahead: October 2025

Credits:

• Hosts: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Thea Fourie, Hanna Luchnikava-Schorsch, Shuchita Shukla
• 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 engages with S&P Global Market Intelligence experts Jack A. Kennedy and Sascha Ostanina to explore the evolving military strategies in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

They discuss the shift from conventional warfare to more interventionist and attritional strategies, the role of technology in modern conflict, and the implications for regional and global security. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of geopolitical developments, the impact on alliances, and the importance of data-driven analysis in navigating current uncertainties.

Tune in for insights that empower confident decision-making in an increasingly complex world.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Country Risk Month Ahead: September 2025
• Red Sea ‘revival’ taking place as regional carriers lead the way
• Picture This: Houthis Renew Vessel Attacks, Making Shipping Route Changes Unlikely

Credits:

• Hosts: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Jack A. Kennedy, Sascha Ostanina
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun