Nov. 20 economics panel to include experts from Chicago Federal Reserve, WHEDA

November 19, 2008

The economy is facing the toughest times it has faced since the days of the Great Depression. In response to this, the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater Economics Society will hold its second panel discussion on the economy from 4 – 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 20 at the Fern Young Terrace of the Young Auditorium. The event is free and open to the public.

"This second panel discussion in the series will allow students and community members to find out a little about the challenges faced by the policy makers and businesses in dealing with the current economic crisis," Economics Professor Yamin Ahmad said.

The panel will feature Steven Kuehl from the Chicago Federal Reserve, Darren Easton from the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority and Rich Gray from financing of Russ Darrow Auto Group.

"The experts should be able to provide the audience with unique insight into the mortgage meltdown and how it has impacted both the housing market in Wisconsin and the Midwest," Ahmad said. "As well as insight on general economic repercussions of the crisis."

Kuehl will speak about the role and the challenges that the Federal Reserve will face during the economic crisis. Easton will speak on the impact the current crisis has on the housing market and the implications of foreclosures on the housing market in Wisconsin. Gray will speak about the impact of the crisis on companies with a large inventory. Aside from speaking on their specific areas of expertise, the panel will also field questions from the audience.