Economics

Publisher’s Note: The bottom line financially in the coming months is that Augusta-area companies and families will pay more to borrow money. It’s an effort by“The Fed” to slow the tide of inflation. Last week, Dr. Franza wrote about the implications of the national debt. Today, he looks into a few key financial meetings that will help determine all our budgets in the CSRA. Although I am not an economist by education or training, as a higher education business educator in Augusta, I have learned that as businesspeople, consumers, and

Road projects in South Carolina are taking center stage. The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and the Augusta Regional Transportation Study (ARTS) are soliciting public comments on specific projects and transportation needs overall. Companies wishing to move into a new area, or expand existing operations, cite access to quality transportation as a deciding factor. That includes a well-developed and maintained highway system. Will Williams, president and CEO of Western SC, told ABD that each year projects in the Palmetto State exceed the available funding. For that reason, the department

Publisher’s Note: Last week, Dr. Franza reviewed part of his 2026 economic predictions HERE.  Part One focused on the U.S. Economy, Financial Markets, and the Federal Reserve. Below is Part Two, focused on our Business Environment in the CSRA, including workforce enhancements and skillsets. Dr. Franza also delved into state government and politics and the impact on our finances. Business Environment Prediction #7: Workplaces will see an accelerated AI integration.   Assessment: Clearly happening. 78% of businesses use or explore AI, with about 58% of employees using it regularly. 50-60% of

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: This is part one of a two-part series. RICK: If nothing else, I am very consistent. In January, I provided you with my economic and business predictions for the coming year, as I have done in this space for each of the past few years. Another regular occurrence has been that midway through the year, I assess how accurate my predictions have been to this point in the year and how they might do for the remainder of the year. So, as the third quarter of 2026 begins,