Economics put simply – because if it’s not usable information, it’s not worth it
Brad Olsen is the Chief Executive and Principal Economist at Infometrics and is widely recognised as one of New Zealand’s most respected and engaging economic commentators.
Nicknamed “Bad News Brad” by ZM’s Fletch, Vaughan, and Hayley, Brad has been described as a “boy wonder and economist extraordinaire” and “the face of economics in New Zealand” and has built a reputation for cutting through noise and getting to the heart of what really matters.
Brad calls it how he sees it – without fear nor favour – in an engaging, witty, sometimes funny, but always informative way that helps audiences understand the economic forces shaping New Zealand and the decisions that sit ahead.
He is a community leader, and one of New Zealand’s youngest Justices of the Peace, performing both ministerial and judicial duties – alongside being a marriage celebrant. He serves on the Institute of Directors’ Wellington Branch Committee and is a member of the Asia New Zealand Foundation Leadership Network. His work in the community has been recognised numerous times: he was named New Zealand’s Queen’s Young Leader in 2016, one of Asia New Zealand Foundation’s 25 to Watch in 2019, and Young Wellingtonian of the Year 2020.
Talking Points
Finding the new economic normal
The economy, and individual businesses, are still trying to re-establish what normal looks like after a chaotic few years, battling a pandemic, inflation, recession, and rising geopolitical risks globally. In among all the disruption and upheaval, keeping up with the latest economic trends, the evolving future outlook, and how all that relates to specific sectors, is increasingly important – and something Economist Brad Olsen monitors daily. From cost of living pressures to employment trends – and the latest working from home stats – Brad can provide a tailored update on the economy, with reference to specific data on your industry or sector. Finding the new economic normal
Key Takeaways: For business leaders looking to understand what’s going on and how to position the business heading forward, understanding the economic environment, how external factors are influencing business conditions, and what other trends to keep an eye on are vital to success. Brad’s data-heavy, but engaging and easily understood manner means you’ll come out of his presentation more confident you understand what’s happening and what’s forecast to occur, and how you can respond to ensure better informed decisions.
Brad was a great speaker to deal with, was able to offer time beforehand to understand the audience and message we were trying to deliver. Brad was able to deliver a presentation at our work ... keep reading Hurunui District Landcare Group
Brad was excellent held the audience attention very well. In future we would allow more time for Q and A as this was very valuable and enjoyed by our audience
Brad always tells it like it is - and with a dash of humour too. He's very good!
Brad was excellent - he brought great energy to the session, setting the scene (and the bar very high) for the rest of the event! His answers to audience Q&A were so quick on the mark and he provided commentary that was relevant, insightful and engaging to our audience. We were delighted to have him help us deliver a successful first Aon Insights Series event.
Amazing speaker! Spoke to our audience well with the perfect messaging and content. Well received by our audience who sent us feedback to say how great Brad was.
Brad was great. His ability to answer questions off the cuff was very much appreciated.
