The economic trends top Charlotte CEOs are watching in 2025

The big picture: Amid still-high inflation and a booming Charlotte population, business leaders are paying close attention to economic trends that could affect their companies as the nation ushers in a new presidential administration.

• Barkin made the remarks Thursday during Charlotte Regional Business Alliance's annual economic outlook.
• Inflation is down, GDP growth is strong and unemployment is at its natural rate, Barkin says. That's thanks to "a stronger but a choosier consumer, coupled with a more productive and better-valued workforce."

Also at the event, a panel of prominent CEOs with Charlotte ties shared what trends they're watching in 2025:

For American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, that's a pilot shortage. A commercial pilot's license takes two years, and new hires start at $100,000, he says.

• "There has to be a re-look at the value of a college education," he says.

Brian Moynihan, CEO of Bank of America, indicated that if immigration slows down, it could weigh on the construction industry by potentially creating a labor shortage. That will impact housing.

Bill Christensen, CEO of window and door manufacturer JELD-WEN, said their most concerning headwind is interest rates.

• "There is a perception that waiting for a period of time allows you to gather lower costs of financing or lower costs of products," he said. "Our big challenge right now is finding out ways to get people more engaged into home buying."