Nationally renowned finance researcher analyzes Central Pa., U.S. economic outlook

Sam Bourgi, a nationally renowned finance analyst and researcher, offers mixed reviews for the economic outlook in Central Pennsylvania and the U.S. 

“Nationally, the U.S. economy remains resilient but uneven,” said Bourgi, who has more than 13 years of expertise in financial markets, economics, and monetary policy. “Growth has held up, inflation has cooled from its peak, and the labor market remains relatively stable, but households continue to feel pressure from high prices for essentials such as housing, food, and energy. 

“In Pennsylvania, those same trends apply, with steady employment but higher everyday costs limiting how far paychecks stretch. Central PA tends to be more stable than major metro areas due to its mix of healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing, but that also means household budgets are heavily exposed to fuel, utilities, and commuting costs.” 

Currently a finance analyst and researcher at InvestorsObserver, an independent financial analysis, Bourgi’s professional background spans the private, nonprofit, and public sectors, where he has held positions such as senior policy adviser, labor market analyst, and marketing director. His research and market analysis have been referenced by institutions and organizations including the U.S. Congress and Department of Justice. 

Bourgi said federal tariffs continue to add friction to the economy by raising input costs and increasing uncertainty for businesses, both nationally and in Central Pennsylvania. 

“While the immediate effects are uneven, tariffs often show up gradually in higher prices for goods and equipment,” said Bourgi. “Pennsylvania is particularly sensitive because of its manufacturing and agricultural supply chains. In Central PA, where manufacturers rely on cross-border materials and components, tariffs can squeeze margins and slow hiring or investment decisions, even before consumers see the full price impact.” 

Amid the economic uncertainty, new analysis reveals that consumer spending continues to rise. 

“Recent data show U.S. consumer spending is increasing, even as households report economic anxiety,” said Bourgi. “This reflects both steady employment and a growing reliance on credit. Consumers are continuing to spend on goods and services, but much of that resilience is being financed, not funded by rising real income. Credit card debt is at record highs and ‘buy now, pay layer’ loans are exploding.” 

To try and save while costs remain high, consumers are employing several strategies. 

“Consumers are actively trying to save by trading down, delaying big purchases, and cutting discretionary spending,” said Bourgi. “However, fixed costs like rent, groceries, insurance, and utilities leave less room to adjust. 

Bourgi pointed to one budget drain in particular that is affecting consumers in Central Pennsylvania and across the country. 

“One major pressure point is technology spending,” said Bourgi. “Phone upgrades and electronics have become recurring expenses often financed with credit, despite rapid depreciation. Cutting back on frequent tech upgrades is one of the most effective ways households can reduce debt and regain control of their budgets in today’s high-cost environment.” 

The most recent data reveals that U.S. consumer spending has increased and remained resilient. Even amid the current economic problems, households increased their purchases of a range of goods and services. Though saving money topped America’s New Year resolutions, consumers have found that five weeks into 2026, credit card bills remain high, and rent, gas, and groceries refuse to drop. 

“People enjoy buying; it boosts our mood, it shows off wealth,” said Bourgi. “On the surface it seems positive, and the economy remains resilient. But if your paycheck hasn’t grown as fast as your spending, that resilience can easily turn into a debt problem by mid-year, which is why the tech spending diet is your best bet for making resolutions stick.”