Global Chamber® Baltimore/Washington hosted A New Year of Global Markets & Opportunities, bringing together global business leaders, executives, and investors for the region’s first in-person event of the year. Held as a curated executive lunch at Pupatella Mosaic in Fairfax, Virginia, the program focused on global economic trends, emerging markets, and strategies shaping international growth in 2026.
The sold-out event illustrated global tribe enthusiasm as we enter another year of growth. The event convened leaders from across the Baltimore–Washington region, creating space for meaningful dialogue, relationship-building, and forward-looking insights to support cross-border business expansion.
Event Overview
The event was supported by Presenting Partner Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) and Supporting Partner Hamilton Prime International, with Pupatella Mosaic providing a welcoming environment for thoughtful discussion and networking.
Designed as a high-value executive lunch, the program explored how global markets, public policy, finance, and strategic networking intersect to create opportunity. As businesses navigate uncertainty alongside unprecedented global potential, the conversation emphasized clarity, preparation, and trusted connections as essential drivers of growth.
Event Highlights
The program featured expert perspectives from economic development, finance, and global business services—offering attendees a well-rounded view of the forces shaping global markets in 2026. The program was led by Mi Jeong Hibbitts- Executive Director of Global Chamber BWI.
Speakers included:
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Anna Nissinen, Senior Vice President, Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA)
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Dr. Ashish Gupta, Senior Director, Multifamily Analytics, Fannie Mae
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César Trabanco, Vice President of Business Services, Global Chamber®
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Tarun Chopra, Board Chair, Global Chamber® Baltimore/Washington
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Mi Jeong Hibbitts, Executive Director, Global Chamber® Baltimore/Washington
Key Themes & Insights
- Fairfax County as a Global Economic Engine Anna Nissinen shared insights into Fairfax County’s global growth strategy, foreign direct investment (FDI), along with the regions’s role as one of North America’s most dynamic economic hubs. Her perspective highlighted how regional ecosystems—when supported by innovation, talent, and capital—can compete and lead on a global stage.
- Economic Signals for 2026 and Beyond Dr. Ashish Gupta provided a forward-looking view of U.S. and global economic trends through the lens of housing finance and data-driven risk analysis. Drawing on Fannie Mae’s deep experience, he connected housing market conditions with broader economic performance, offering valuable context for investors and business leaders planning for the year ahead.
- The Power of Global Connections in a Digital Age César Trabanco discussed how Global Chamber® is evolving to support international growth through strategic networking, AI-enabled tools, and trusted relationships. His remarks emphasized the importance of leveraging global ecosystems to accelerate expansion, reduce risk, and uncover opportunity across borders.
- Leadership, Perspective, and Collaboration With guidance from Tarun Chopra and Mi Jeong Hibbitts, the discussion reinforced the importance of leadership, cross-cultural understanding, and collaboration in navigating complex global markets. The format encouraged dialogue and relationship-building beyond formal presentations.
Reflections on the Event
A New Year of Global Markets & Opportunities set a strong tone for 2026, reinforcing the value of early-year insight, trusted connections, and purposeful conversation. By bringing together leaders across sectors, the event helped participants gain perspective, anticipate trends, and identify new paths for growth.
As Global Chamber® Baltimore/Washington continues its 2026 programming, this kickoff event underscored the region’s role as a gateway to global opportunity—and the power of community in helping members grow with confidence and clarity.
Originally published at https://www.globalchamber.org/blog/2026/02/02/global-chamber/new-year-of-global-markets-opportunities-baltimore-washington-2026/
