More Economic Gains Forecast

Speakers at the Georgia Economic Outlook forum predicted the state’s economy will grow 1.5% next year, building on this year’s gains and staving off a recession.

However, pressure will remain on lower-income earners, who are ”significantly more challenged right now than the rest of the economy,” one researcher said.

Overall, Georgia’s economy will remain more resilient than much of the country, buoyed by military spending, immigration enforcement jobs, and new data centers, they said.

Among their other predictions: The state’s unemployment will rise from 3.6% to 4.1% and interest rates will drop to 2.75% by year’s end.

You can access a schedule of planned local economic outlook presentations here.

$500M World Cup Impact Eyed

State and Atlanta officials are pitching the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a once-in-a-generation economic and global branding opportunity.

They project more than $500 million in direct economic impact from the expected 300,000 visitors who will travel to the city and state in June and July.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host eight matches over those months, including a semifinal match, with work underway on security, transit, volunteer coordination, and a fan festival.

Atlanta is also investing in other ways, including approving about $1 million in grants for small businesses and accelerating Beltline projects to spread World Cup activity beyond downtown.

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➤ Golden Isles: Georgia’s coast will host treasure hunts, oyster roasts, historic home tours, and cultural festivals in early 2026. (More)

➤ Athens: Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton has emerged as a top 2026 Heisman Trophy contender after leading the Bulldogs to the SEC title with 31 touchdowns and clutch performances. (More)

➤ Americus: A local man built a battery-powered Santa sleigh to spread holiday cheer across South Georgia, continuing his father’s festive tradition. His next project: a Christmas train. (Watch Video)

➤ Atlanta: Christophe Truchet was named chef de cuisine of the Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta’s French-inspired kitchens. (More)

➤ Augusta: Construction on the new 10,000-seat Augusta Arena is on schedule to open within two years, eagerly awaited by economically struggling Broad Street businesses. (More)

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How do you feel about this change?

Will you make any New Year’s resolutions?

1. Yes
2. One, not to make any resolutions
3. No

Yesterday’s Results:

Which of these common jobs from 150 years ago would you have likely worked?

1. Farmer/farm laborer: 12%
2. Carpenter: 12%
3. Store clerk: 12%
4. Teacher: 12%
5. Rail worker: 11%
6. Domestic servant: 10%
7. Other: 11%
8. Tailor/seamstress: 10%
9. Blacksmith: 10%

Where can you visit the boyhood home of President Woodrow Wilson?

Show me the answer