Though the current economic picture is marked by uncertainty and mixed signals, the South Bay region remains resilient and positioned to meet the opportunities ahead. That was the central message of the 11th South Bay Economic Forecast, titled “South Bay on the Global Stage: Mega-Events and Their Impacts.”
Several hundred business, government, education, and civic leaders gathered at CSUDH on March 5 for the event, moderated by 790 KABC Business Anchor Frank Mottek.
Listen to Frank Mottek’s radio broadcast interview with Professor of Public Administration and South Bay Economics Institute Co-Director Fynnwin Prager (March 5 episode).
The program featured three panels: the Economics Panel, Mega-Events Panel, and Logistics & Real Estate Panel. The Economics Panel, comprised entirely of CSUDH faculty economists, delved into the 2026 South Bay Economic Forecast and Industry Outlook [PDF], which analyzes the growth and challenges shaping key sectors such as real estate, manufacturing, labor, entrepreneurship, and more.
The Mega-Events Panel focused primarily on the region’s role in hosting the upcoming FIFA World Cup, Super Bowl, and Olympic and Paralympic Games. Panelists discussed how these global events will permanently influence the South Bay’s economy, infrastructure, and international profile, underscoring that gains will depend on strategic planning and coordination.
The Logistics and Real Estate Panel explored pathways to infrastructure investment, housing development, and public-private collaboration to strengthen regional competitiveness.
Watch the 2026 Economic Forecast:
