Fifth Third Bank Chief Economist Jeff Korzenik is forecasting the Houston region and the U.S. will grow this year and avoid a recession. Despite growing concerns around inflation, labor shortages, and interest rate uncertainty, Houston stands out as a region poised to weather potential economic headwinds.  In a recent economic outlook presentation during the Greater Houston Partnership's Economy Series event, Korzenik offered reasons why Houston is better positioned than many U.S. cities to remain resilient in the face of macroeconomic challenges: Strong Consumer Spending Power  While inflation remains elevated – particularly in rent, food and energy – aggregate household debt levels are relatively low, reducing the risk of widespread financial distress. Population Growth and Business Climate  Texas continues to offer a pro-business environment, with Houston at the forefront of population growth and continued attraction of corporate headquarters. Houston ranks No. 1 in job growth, ahead of Dallas, Philadelphia, and Phoenix, and No. 2 in population growth over the past decade and year-over-year. Houston also leads in growth among residents under 18, has the highest two-year GDP increase at 25 percent, and remains the No. 1 exporting metro.  Click to expand   According to Fifth Bird Bank's Empowering American Cities' regional economic snapshot, "compared with other large extended-metropolitan-areas, Houston is in the top third, with projected GDP growth above the U.S. average." The key industries expected to drive growth include health care, energy, logistics and manufacturing. Manufacturing Momentum  Manufacturing shows potential as a growth engine, especially with reshoring efforts. However, Korzenik said uncertainty around trade policy could slow momentum because businesses need stable rules to plan long-term investments.  Fifth Third Bank Chief Economist Jeff Korzenik presents economic outlook at Partnership's Economy Series event on April 23, 2025. Korzenik said he’ll be keeping a close eye on unemployment claims, which if it gets to 400,000 – 500,000 weekly claims, could be an indication of a recession. While broader national risks remain on the radar, Houston’s demographic strength, business climate and economic diversity provide strong insulation. You can learn more about Houston's economy and why companies continue to choose Houston during the Partnership's upcoming State of Houston's Global Economy event on May 1, 2025.

Out of the 13 Houston chefs and restaurants initially named semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Awards, four have advanced to the final round.  The James Beard Awards honor outstanding talent in the culinary and hospitality industries across the country. This year’s Houston finalists span a range of categories, from Best Chef to Outstanding Wine Program, showcasing the city’s vibrant and diverse dining scene.  Click to expand Emmanuel Chavez of Tatemó is once again a finalist in the Best Chef: Texas category, marking his third consecutive nomination. He continues to earn acclaim for his masterful use of heirloom corn, crafting dishes that pay homage to the cultural significance of maize in Mexican cuisine. Joining him in the same category is Thomas Bille of Belly of the Beast in Spring, earning his second nomination for the restaurant’s bold, Mexican-inspired offerings that push creative boundaries.  Click to expand Ema, celebrated for its Mexican-inspired pastries and high-quality coffee, has secured a spot in the Best New Restaurant category. Meanwhile, March is a finalist in the Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program category, thanks to its expertly curated and diverse selection of Mediterranean wines.  All four Houston finalists have also earned recognition in the prestigious Michelin Guide, adding to their impressive list of accolades.   Winners will be announced during the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.  Learn more about Houston’s award-winning culinary scene.