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At the National Press Club. Le Nhu Ngoc Tran, Whitman College.

On February 20th, I attended the Annual Minority Policy Summit hosted by the Financial Services Innovation Coalition (FSIC) at the National Press Club. The conversations around 2026, antitrust, and AI left a strong impression on me.

The economic outlook for 2026 presented by William Michael Cunningham of creativeinvest.com was especially compelling since many of the predictions he made at the same event in 2025 have come true, from the labor market forecast to the predicted condition of the housing market and unemployment. His message was clear: we are not in a normal business cycle but the economy is changing, driven by technology, shifting the labor demands, and evolving capital markets. After that, the discussion about antitrust built directly on that theme. Protecting minority businesses and ensuring fair competition will require modernized antitrust policies that address technological dominance, not just traditional monopolies. This also depends on how effectively we regulate concentrated power in digital markets.

After that, a discussion on AI and the job market came up, which is a topic that felt deeply personal as a young professional navigating this transition. One speaker, Mr. Arthur Sidney, addressed how artificial intelligence is already reshaping hiring processes. From resume screening to algorithmic filtering, AI systems are increasingly making entry level job decisions. His advice was practical and empowering: if you suspect your application was filtered out by an automated system, advocate for yourself. Reach out to HR. Express continued interest. Ask for advice. Do not assume the algorithm represents the final judgment on your potential.

Even more importantly, the panelists challenged us to shift our mindset about AI. Rather than perceiving it as a threat, we should actively upskill and learn how to leverage AI tools. The competitive advantage in the 2026 economy will belong to those who understand how to collaborate with AI, using it to enhance research, productivity, creativity, and strategy. Avoidance will not protect us but adaptability will position us.

Overall, the summit reinforced one key message: economic forecasting, antitrust reform, and AI are deeply interconnected. As we are moving forward in 2026, understanding both policy and technology will be essential, not just to adapt to change, but to help shape it. It was a meaningful event where I received guidance and created meaningful networking opportunities. 

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