The Economic Perspective 1/2/2026

The Latest Trending Economic, Environmental and Infrastructure News Curated for You by The Balmoral Group

The Balmoral Group provides practical, professional and precise Economics, Data Analytics, and Engineering Consulting services and is part of a globally integrated team.

Happy Friday! 

Welcome new and returning readers to the first edition of TBG's 2026 Economic Perspective Series! We hope everyone has had a great start to their new year! If you are part of the approximately 38.5% of people who created resolutions to start the new year, we wish you the best of luck in your endeavors. With the new year comes new articles for you all to peruse, so grab a snack and some leftover sparkling cider, and enjoy!

In our first edition of this year, we discuss a pause for offshore wind projects, great genetic results for flamingos, an increase in the minimum wage across some states, and indigenous techniques supporting clam restoration. We also cover forestry research advancements in WA, and the economic outlook of 2026. Additionally, public safety statistics are displayed from a wildfire for the data visualization of the week! 

Please feel free to forward this to anyone you think would be interested. If you’d like to view previous editions please click here, or to subscribe please click here!

Thanks for reading and have a great weekend!

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Leases Paused for Large-Scale Offshore Wind Projects

Last week, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced the pausing of wind energy leasing for all large-scale offshore wind projects. The federal agency states the projects contribute to national security risks including radar interference based on the movement of large turbine blades obstructing visibility for targets. However, others note that before the construction of the current projects, security threats were accounted for in order to receive approval during the permitting process. Since 2021, the U.S. has developed multiple offshore wind facilities to generate renewable, clean energy, which was incentivized by the passing of the Inflation Reduction Act. Read more here and here.

Study Results Show the Potential for Flamingo Restoration in FL

A study conducted by UCF researchers found that the genetic composition of flamingos within Florida supports future reintroduction if policy can also support it. Analyzed characteristics included genetic variability, population structure, and conservation strategies. Flamingo populations represented in the study were from neighboring tropical regions temporarily visiting Florida, managed areas such as zoos, and historical data. Results show that captive populations have the most genetic variability, heightening their potential for reintroduction to increase numbers. However, researchers state current policy is not enough for their reintroduction since there would need to be broader wetland conservation efforts. Florida cultural identity and ecotourism would be co-benefits of the reintroduction of flamingos. Read more here.

20 States Increased Minimum Wage in 2026

State lawmakers have agreed to increase the minimum wage across 20 states within the U.S. effective January 1st. The pay rate changes, expected to affect 8.3 million workers, are estimated to increase wages by $5 billion throughout 2026. Washington state offers $17.13 per hour, representing the state with the highest minimum wage, with its City of Tukwila raising the wage floor to $21.65 per hour representing the highest value in the country. These increases are coming as either scheduled changes or as part of an effort to keep pace with inflation. Read more here.

Indigenous Restoration Techniques Promote Thriving Clam Populations

In American Sāmoa, giant clam populations showcase stability and abundancy near areas of the islands where indigenous populations reside. The study, conducted by the University of Hawai'i, observed clam density, size-class distributions, species composition, and population trends within six islands through transect surveys. Results show that in comparison to federally mandated “no-take” areas, giant clams had higher densities, sizes, and abundance near traditional communities. Indigenous management techniques prove critical to species restoration, understanding local population dynamics, and can cause a reevaluation of federal regulations. Read more here and view the study here.

Global Economic Outlook for 2026

There are trends apparent across the globe that will shape the course of 2026. The growth of artificial intelligence (AI) that has been a topic of discussion continues to be at the forefront, with polls suggesting a bubble in the stock market was selected as a top three risk for 57% of participants. Global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to moderate, with predictions for the U.S. market showing an increase but at different rates based on the researcher. Trade uncertainty globally remains high due to tariff impacts and continued geopolitical tensions. By the end of 2026, market outcomes will reveal the accuracy of these predictions. Read more and view the interactive graphs here.

WSU Receives Donation of 100-Acre Tree Farm

After over 25 years of work, 11,000 trees planted, and 700 nest boxes constructed, Lynn and Becky Miner donated their newly restored tree farm to Washington State University’s (WSU) Forestry Extension in hopes of improving forest health and other research initiatives. They acquired the property in 1992, following decades of mismanagement, and with the help of various state and national environmental conservation departments, transformed it into a thriving tree farm. It will now be used for forest management demonstrations to WSU students learning about wildlife risk and forest health, entomology studies, and more outdoor research and recreation opportunities. Read more here.

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Data Visualization of the Week

Wildfire Public Safety Statistics Displayed

This NASA data visualization showcases weather, air quality, and levels of black carbon, a warming particle with significant health risks, from a wildfire that happened within Los Angeles spanning January 2-14, 2025. The visualization uses the Goddard Earth Observing System (GEOS) model which incorporates a plethora of satellite and weather observations to create the data inputs. The model shows a concentration of the levels to highlight the severity of the public health risks over time. Data visualizations like these can inform multiple stakeholders including scientists, policymakers, and the general public and help improve understanding of complex environmental and human interactions related to wildfire events. View here. (Image source: NASA Scientific Visualization Studio)