Marci Rossell
Expert Economic Forecaster, Former CNBC Chief Economist and Co-Host of SQUAWK BOX 

Marci Rossell is a world-renowned economist and financial expert known for her high-energy, insightful commentary on the intersection of economics, politics, culture, and the media. As the former Chief Economist for CNBC and co-host of Squawk Box, she became a must-watch source for financial news, making complex economic issues accessible and engaging. 

Marci delivers thought-provoking insights on the U.S. and global economy, market trends, investor behavior, and Washington’s impact on Wall Street. With a Ph.D. in Economics from SMU and experience spanning the Federal Reserve, Wall Street, and media, she brings a unique, real-world perspective that resonates long after she leaves the stage. 

Monday Main Stage

The Economy 2025: Tax Cuts, Deregulation, and Tariffs Drive the Agenda

One of the most trusted names in financial reporting and economics, Dr. Rossell will bring you the global economic outlook against the backdrop of policy change in Washington. Economies will adjust to a world of less trade and a stronger dollar, as the Federal Reserve deals with the return of inflationary pressures. The year will also see China struggling to reignite growth amidst long-term demographic challenges and AI continuing to shake up the business world. Join Marci for all this, and much, much more.

Duncan Wardle
Former Vice President of Innovation & Creativity at The Walt Disney Company

As Head of Innovation & Creativity at Disney, Duncan helped teams at Disney Parks, Lucasfilm, Marvel, Pixar, Imagineering and Animation to innovate, creating magical new storylines and amazing experiences for consumers around the globe. 

He now brings his Disney experience to audiences around the world, delivering a series of keynotes, masterclasses and ideation forums, that help people capture unlikely connections, leading to both disruptive thinking and revolutionary ideas. 

He is a multiple TEDx speaker and frequent contributor to Fast Company, Harvard Business Review, and Forbes, and he teaches Innovation and Creativity Masterclasses at Yale and Harvard Universities. Duncan holds the American Citizen Award presented at the White House, an Honorary Doctorate from Edinburgh University, and the Duke of Edinburgh Award, presented by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth. 

Wednesday Main Stage

Reimagine: The Theory of Creativity 

Creativity is a core human skill that remains vital in the age of AI—yet many adults believe they aren’t the “creative type.” Over time, education and corporate structures condition us to seek the “right answer,” stifling our creative potential. 

But creativity never disappears—it lies dormant, waiting to be revived. In this keynote, Duncan shares insights from 30 years at Disney and work with Fortune 500 companies to reignite creative thinking. Attendees will gain practical tools to unlock innovation, challenge industry norms, and drive transformative results.

Key Takeaways:

  • Innovate by challenging industry rules.  

  • Foster a sustainable culture of creativity.  

  • Equip employees with tools to think creatively.