Webinar Replay: Fireside Chat with Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond President Tom Barkin

Webinar Reply | August 7, 2026

In this special conversation, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond President and CEO Tom Barkin joins ADP Chief Economist Nela Richardson for a wide-ranging discussion on the forces shaping the U.S. economy. Barkin shares his perspective on a labor market in a “weak balance,” resilient consumer spending, persistent inflation pressures, and the elevated uncertainty facing businesses as they navigate tariffs, geopolitics, interest rates, and shifting demand. The conversation also explores how AI is influencing investment, productivity, and the outlook for early-career workers, with Barkin offering an optimistic view that AI could ultimately augment workers and create new opportunities as employers adapt. Tune in for an insightful look at how policymakers and businesses are navigating an economy that may be moving from an era of relative stability to one defined by greater change and uncertainty.NABE is the premier professional association for business economists and others who use economics in the workplace. Since 1959, NABE has attracted the most prominent figures in economics, business, and academia to its membership with highly-regarded conferences, educational and career development offerings, industry surveys, and its unrivaled networking opportunities. Past presidents of NABE include former Chairman of the Board of Governors for the Federal Reserve System, Alan Greenspan, several former Federal Reserve Governors, and other senior business leaders.