BILOXI — Financial experts will present their insights on the economy on July 16 at the University of Southern Mississippi’s mid-year economic outlook conference in Biloxi.

The College of Business’ Bureau of Business and Economic Research will host the half-day conference sponsored by The Peoples Bank of Biloxi at its downtown headquarters at 727 Howard Ave.

“The economy is not particularly strong right now, and the latest employment numbers are a sign the nation’s troubles persist in Mississippi,” said Dr. William Gunther, professor of economics and BBER director.

“We will offer some insights into the major factors impacting the economy and where it is likely to be by the end of this year.”

Gunther will present the economic outlook for the U.S. and Mississippi.

Dr. Thomas J. Cunningham, vice president and associate director of research at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, will talk about the Fed’s role in the economic recovery.

Dr. Ed Ranck, associate director of the BBER, will discuss the outlook for South Mississippi and give a report on the recent survey of the Coast’s casino industry.

Gerald Blessey, Gulf Coast Housing director, Mississippi Development Authority will present a status report on the Coast’s housing market.

The lunch presentation will be by Dr. R. Keith Schwer, associate dean and director of the Center for Business and Economic Research at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, who will talk about the challenges and opportunities of the gaming industry.

Posted at www.sunherald.com on July 1, 2009