Here’s what we’re thinking about

Vested Embarks on Marcomms Degrees Tie-Up With London University

Financial PR and marketing agency Vested is helping City, University of London to deliver marcomms degree courses and support new talent joining the industry.

Vested Announces Leadership Expansion

Vested names new UK CEO and a Managing Director to oversee creative and marketing services.

IWD 2024: Why We Must Support Women to Shatter the Fintech Ceiling

This International Women's Day, Vested UK CEO Katie Spreadbury shares her viewpoint on why increasing and retaining female talent in the fintech space is vital to its sustained success.

Sustainable Snapshot: Valentine's Day 2024

Tune into Sustainable Snapshot, the video series with Vested Director Marian Daniells and AssetTV.

Ted Birkhahn Joins Vested as Managing Director

Ted Birkhahn joins Vested as Managing Director where he will lead the firm's strategic push into the middle market.

Sustainable Snapshot: Green Asset Ratio

Tune into Sustainable Snapshot, the video series with Vested Director Marian Daniells and AssetTV.

Still 'a topic of hand-wringing': Four years after COVID began, agency RTO policies are yet a work in progress

Firms generally want employees in the office at least two days a week, but questions continue about whether to mandate attendance, how to monitor it and other factors.

Social Media Star Erika Kullberg Shares How to Avoid TikTok Scams and Get Rich the Right Way

Vested Managing Director Eric Hazard shares the importance of evaluating a TikTok commentator’s financial experience before taking any advice with InvestorPlace.

2023 Marks Another Landmark Year for Vested

As 2023 comes to a close, Vested has won numerous awards and recognitions that support the agency’s continued rapid growth and commitment to delivering unparalleled creativity to the financial services industry.

Are Banks Failing to Address the Unique Needs of Women?

Survey data suggests that financial anxiety among women has worsened in recent years, even as banks say that they are focused on addressing the specific needs of women. Vested CEO Binna Kim shares the importance of technology and data with The Financial Brand.

Fintechs Are Pivotal To Helping Younger Consumers Feel Confident Switching Banks

What moves the needle when it comes to younger generations changing banks? Vested Ventures CEO Eric Hazard shares the three main areas of focus for fintechs to build comfort with their consumers in this article with The Fintech Times.

Sustainable Snapshot: New Board Diversity Trends

Tune into Sustainable Snapshot, the video series with Vested Director Marian Daniells and AssetTV.

Qwoted Rolls Out Collaborative Industry Network

Qwoted released a new feature allowing users to search by agency, subject matter, expertise, job title or name.

How Communicators Help Employees Use Their Wellness Benefits

Vested Chief People Officer Loreal Torres shares the ways she communicates benefits with new and existing employees.

Sustainable Snapshot: Conference Season & Carbon Offset Programs

Tune into Sustainable Snapshot, the video series with Vested Director Marian Daniells and AssetTV.

Gen Z Favors Word of Mouth Over Marketing

Group Vested CEO Binna Kim shares her thoughts on the Netflix factor and what the younger generation expects out of their banking experience in this piece with American Banker.

Introducing Sustainable Snapshot

Introducing the Sustainable Snapshot, the new video series with Vested Director Marian Daniells and AssetTV.

Crafting an Ever-Evolving Editorial Calendar

Vested Managing Director Eric Hazard shares his advice on staying true to your organization's editorial objectives and how to make the most out of your content with PR Daily.

Top Agency Leaders Talk Tech

Group CEO Binna Kim joined PRWeek and Notified for a roundtable on the conversations agencies are having with their clients on technology and artificial intelligence.

Office Space: More Trouble For The Foreseeable Future

The real-estate impact of COVID lockdowns is empty office space and a lack of desire to return to in-person work full time. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the fallout and the longterm effects in this article originally published by Forbes.

Another Housing Crisis?

Chief Economist Milton Ezrati talks about the ongoing housing crisis, and what we can learn from the collapse of 08-09.

Navigating Communications Trends and Challenges

Group Vested CEO Binna Kim joined PR’s Top Pros Talk to discuss leadership styles, the challenges communicators face in today's environment, and how we can leverage both data and a variety of channels to mitigate the issues our clients face.

The Bamboo Ceiling: Being an AAPI Leader

Less than seven percent of PR and advertising professionals identify as AAPI. Very few AAPIs are represented in the C-suite amongst the top PR agencies. Beyond the communications industry, AAPIs run into the “bamboo ceiling,” and AAPI women, in particular, find themselves crashing into the “bamboo glass ceiling.” Group CEO Binna Kim writes for O'Dwyer's.

Is the digital dollar likely?

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the implications, roadblocks, and advantages of the digital dollar after a resurgence of interest, in this article originally published by Forbes.

On Embracing AI

With artificial intelligence dominating in the business news cycle, there's a lot of talk about innovation and the future. There's also a lot of talk about the drawbacks or dangers of the emerging technology. In this article originally published by Forbes, Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati helps readers move past their fears and focus on embracing AI.

The Budget Deficit Continues

The budget deficit continues to widen, but what exactly does that mean for the US? And what exactly could be done about it? Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati breaks down the issues in this article originally published by The Epoch Times.

Firms Dial Up Advertising to Draw Market-Shy Investors

Continued market turbulence may mean wealth management firms are allocating more advertising resources to investors looking for advice. Vested CEO Binna Kim weighs in on why firms need to simplify their messages to break through to consumers.

After SVB Collapse, Regional Banks Hustle to Protect Their Reputation

Vested US CEO Amber Roberts weighs in on how her teams are responding to the aftermath of the SVB collapse and the importance of communications in uncertain times.

Inflation Woes Continue

The inflation issue has been tough to crack, with numbers creeping back up after a brief period of hope that we may be through the worst. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores in this article originally published by Forbes.

How Will Recent Bank Failures Impact the Economy?

Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins KNX Radio to discuss whether the American banking system is really safe and if the economy will be impacted.

Commercial Real Estate Outlook, February 2023

The post-COVID recovery has been a mixed bag for most industries. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati looks at the numbers to help understand the commercial real estate outlook for 2023.

Vested in the News: Milton Ezrati on the 1980s Recession

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati was quoted in "Why the 1980s recession haunts the Fed," published online by The Hill on February 6th, 2023.

Technology and the Future - Part 2

In part 2 of this series originally published by The Epoch Times, Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the economic impact that technology will have on the future, with an eye toward ESG and the aging retiree population.

Technology and the Future - Part 1

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the future impact that technology will have on the economy through the lens of data, communication, fintech, and healthcare, in part 1 of this 2-part series, originally published by The Epoch Times.

Inflation impacts consumer spending

With inflation far outpacing recent wage gains, consumer spending in key categories is down. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the far-reaching impacts in this article originally published by Forbes.

Are Bonds Back? Well, Yes, Sort Of.

The Fed's efforts to ease inflation have given investors reason to include bonds in their portfolios for the first time in a decade. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati examines what the renewed interest in bonds means for investors as the world’s central banks raise interest rates higher still.

Housing Depression Will Continue

After a volatile 2022, the housing market continues to make waves in the new year. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores in this article originally published by The Epoch Times.

Does hiring signal strength?

In early January 2023, hiring remained strong. But does hiring signal strength for the rest of the economy? Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores in this article originally published by The Epoch Times.

Chairman Dan Simon Named to PRWeek Dashboard 25

Each year, the Dashboard 25 recognizes top leaders in the communications technology space and celebrates the innovators driving the PR industry forward. 

Consumer cutbacks in 2023

Between inflation and rising interest rates, consumers have been cutting back on spending, increasing the looming threat of recession. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in in this article originally published by The Epoch Times.

Jobs Strength Won't Last

Jobs strength has continued to grow in face of an increasingly volatile economy. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati puts it all into context in this article originally published by Forbes.

Group Vested Launches Creative Platform Finance Studio

In a PRWeek exclusive, Group Vested announces the launch of Finance Studio, the new creative platform providing custom content, design, branding and digital marketing services.

Progress Against Inflation

In recent weeks, the Fed has made significant progress against inflation. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati reviews impacts so far and what we can expect next in this article originally published by The Epoch Times.

A Look Back at 2022, a Look Forward to 2023

‘Tis the season for articles that look back at the past year and forward to the next. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati looks back at the wild ride that was 2022 to give us a clearer view of 2023 in this article originally published by The Epoch Times.

Federal Reserve Chair Offers Guidance on Inflation

Fed chairman Jerome Powell has frequently spoken publicly about inflation in recent weeks. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in on the Fed's efforts in this article originally posted by The Epoch Times.

Hiring is Poised to Weaken

While new job creation has seen a slight bump, evidence suggests hiring is poised to weaken. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores.

Credit-risk Transfers: A Financial Vulnerability

Looking back to the 2008-2009 financial crisis for guidance, Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores what may be one of today's greatest vulnerabilities in the face of a potential recession: credit-risk transfers.

More To Worry About In Financial Markets

As the Fed drives up interest rates and recession looms, there's more to worry about in financial markets. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores.

The US Economy is Sick

As we stand on the precipice of a recession, one thing is clear - the economy is under the weather. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati looks at earnings, inflation, and GDP to offer insights about our current situation.

Biden Competes with China

The CHIPS Act is the latest effort to re-establish American manufacturing excellence. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the impacts of recent political moves made as President Biden aims to compete with China.

Inflation: No Relief Today, Nor Any In Sight

September numbers confirm--inflation's not going anywhere anytime soon. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati investigates inflation numbers from the month and what we can expect in the near future. Originally published by Forbes.

Is Small Talk at Work Necessary to Succeed?

Vested Group CEO Binna Kim weighs in on how small talk can help build relationships at work and how employers can think about it in this article originally published on WorkLife.

East And West Rates Going In Different Directions

Western central banks have been fighting inflation by raising interest rates, but China has taken a different approach. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores in this article originally published by Forbes.

Federal Financial Mess

Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the current federal financial mess we find ourselves in and offers his insights on how we got here in this article originally pushed in The Epoch Times.

Interest Rates Will Go Higher

Fed Chairman Jerome Powell has indicated that more rate increases are coming. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores implications for recession and the economy at large, in this article originally published in The Epoch Times.

The CHIPS for America Act: A Strange Mix

Chief Economist Milton Ezrati takes a deep look at the CHIPS for America Act - a new bill devised to spur semiconductor manufacturing in the US.

The Federal Reserve Has A Long Way To Go

The Fed shows no signs of slowing down interest rate hikes, and markets have responded accordingly. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores implications and looks to the past to provide future guidance in this article originally published by Forbes.

Whither Real Estate: Impact of Inflation

Rising mortgage rates aren't going anywhere in the near future. But these aren't the only factors impacting the housing market. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores market pressures and how some are coming to see real estate as a safe haven for wealth in this article originally published in Forbes.

How Founders Get More Sales in Their Startups

Vested Ventures CEO Eric Hazard joins Making Billions with Ryan Miller to discuss the right messaging when raising capital and the benefits of the PESO model.

The Right Foot: How Can a Leader Succeed?

The key to building and retaining a successful team is to be a leader who prioritizes helping their employees shine. Managing Director Katie Spreadbury reflects on her own experiences as a leader and teammate, and the ways organizations can foster cultures of trust and growth.

Inflation Numbers Sink Wall Street

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins KNX In Depth to discuss the latest on inflation and the economy.

New Business Formation Offers Good Economic News

Is the economy in a recession? Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in, looking at the rate of new business formation as a key indicator.

Vested Steps Behind the Camera

Account Assistant Marcus McGrigor got a taste of the media training and preparation he puts clients through with a series of mock interviews designed to make it feel like you're presenting to a live audience.

Investing in Fintech with an Impact

Vested Ventures CEO Eric Hazard joins The Compassionate Capitalist podcast to discuss the nuances within fintech and how its uniquely qualified to address issues with financial access.

Is the Fed Up to the Job?

The Fed has started taking action to ease inflation, but do they have the mettle to stay the course? Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores whether the Fed is up to the job in this article originally published in Forbes.

A Break in Inflation?

July brought a measure of relief on the inflation front, but one month does not make a trend. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati digs into details from the latest CPI report and offers insights about the ongoing economic situation in this article originally published in Forbes.

Will The Fed's Latest Move Be Enough to Combat Inflation?

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins Yahoo! Finance Live to discuss whether the latest move by the Fed will be enough to combat inflation.

The Biden-Harris Inflation Plan: Rhetoric or Real?

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in on the Biden-Harris plan to tackle inflation in this article originally published on Forbes.

Ishviene Arora Elected to 2022 PRNEWS Top Women in PR

Ishviene Arora, Group Vested President and Chief Client Officer, was elected to the 2022 PRNEWS Top Women in PR list in the Entrepreneur category.

Interest Rate Hike Looks to Fight Off Inflation

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins the KNX In Depth team to discuss the impact of the Fed's interest rate moves on inflation.

Double-Digit Growth Leads to Exciting Leadership Updates at Vested

Ishviene Arora, Group Vested President and Chief Client Officer, reflects on the agency's growth that has led to the leadership team's expanded roles and responsibilities.

Group Vested Executive Leadership Expands Responsibilities Amid Double Digit Growth

Group Vested made several changes to its executive leadership team's titles at the beginning of this month to more accurately reflect the team's responsibilities.

Can the Fed Counter Inflation?

The Fed faces an especially tough battle against inflation in the months to come. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in on how we got here and what to expect next.

Can Biden Help Affordable Housing?

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati shares his thoughts on President Biden's 5-point affordable housing program and how market limitations could affect outcomes.

Weakening Household Finances

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores how budget constraints will slow consumer spending growth for The Epoch Times.

Roots of America's Labor Shortage

There are many theories as to why the nation is facing a labor shortage. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores various explanations and attempts to get to the root of the problem.

How To Bring More Care into Your PR Workplace

When employers show they care for their employees, it creates a cycle that positively impacts not only the business, but clients too. Vested managing director Katie Spreadbury shares her thoughts on creating a caring culture with PRmoment.

Reshaping the Leadership Paradigm Will Help AAPI, Others

As Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month comes to an end, Vested president Binna Kim weighs in on how we define and promote leadership within corporate America.

Inflation Will Lead Inexorably to Recession

With inflationary pressure confronting the economy, Chief Economist Milton Ezrati believes recession is on the horizon. Here, he shares his thoughts on timing and outcomes with Forbes.

Inaction in Europe Makes the Fed's Anti-inflation Fight Tougher

Inflation will persist as a problem on both sides of the Atlantic as the ECB weighs its options. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati offers insights on what the coming months might hold.

PR Players Aim To Claim Their Space In the Metaverse

As brands fast-track their moves into the metaverse, industry watchers are urging communicators to proceed with caution. Vested's Binna Kim weighs in.

The Revealing Economics of the Metaverse

Vested's Chief Economist Milton Ezrati takes a look at the economics of the metaverse, and how they parallel the "real" world.

Financial Industry Free Fall Engages the Communicators’ Cavalry

No matter their politics, everyone seems to have headaches and anxiety about the current state of their finances. Stuck in the middle of all this are financial platforms, banks, and advisors. Communicators, once again, will answer the call and serve as the cavalry in a sea of confused and worried clients. Vested's Eric Hazard weighs in.

Inflation-fighting Policy Failure Seems Unavoidable

Vested's Chief Economist looks at the Fed and ECB responses to fighting inflation.

Housing: Poised for Trouble

Residential real estate may be due for a correction. Vested's Chief Economist paints a picture of what the future could hold.

Investing in the Metaverse

Investing in the metaverse may not be as revolutionary as some believe.

Aon Names Vested as North America PR Partner

Aon's Head of Global Communications, Mike Marinello, announces that Vested has been named as its North American agency partner.

US Economy: Slowing Growth and Inflation

Vested's Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores economic indicators that paint a picture of slowing post-pandemic recovery amid ongoing inflation.

Milton Ezrati on TD Ameritrade Network: "Required Rate Increases Could Cause a Recession"

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati on the TD Ameritrade Network show "Morning Trade Live" discussing inflation and the risk of a possible recession.

A Universal Basic Income?

Milton Ezrati gives his thoughts on the idea of a Universal Basic Income and thinks "the idea to give a free cash stipend to everyone is wrongheaded".

The Fed Does As Expected, Giving Reason for Both Relief and Disappointment

Milton Ezrati gives his analysis of the Fed's recent interest rate increase.

Sanctions Will Weigh Heavily

Milton Ezrati speculates on the effects current global sanctions will have on the economy of Russia.

Milton Ezrati Discusses the War in Ukraine and Possible Recession on KNX News "In Depth"

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in on how the war in Ukraine will affect the American economy.

Vested Ventures Provides Strategic Investment to Financial Planning Software Company Anasova

Vested Ventures funding will help the company develop their financial Anasova advance and promote their mission of minimizing the stress around finances through free financial planning tools.

What's the Deal with the Digital Dollar?

With cryptocurrencies gaining in popularity, is the digital dollar far behind?

Women Are Not Returning to the Workforce After the Pandemic

Many women who worked before the pandemic remain at home.

Milton Ezrati Discusses Inflation on KNX News "In Depth"

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins KNX News "In Depth" to discuss inflation and if there is any end in sight.

Capital Spending Points to Growth, At Least for the Time Being

Milton Ezrati hints that an increase in capital spending may be an indication that economic recovery is coming.

Milton Ezrati Discusses Consumer Confidence on Yahoo Finance

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins Yahoo Finance Live to discuss consumer confidence, inflation and real estate.

What Happened Last Time is Not Encouraging

Milton Ezrati warns that Washington's aggressive spending could lead to inflation rates similar to the 1970's.

Robinhood's 2021 PR Crisis

Vested's Eric Hazard comments on Robinhood's 2021 PR crisis in PRovoke Media's roundup of the top 20 PR Crises of 2021.

Milton Ezrati Previews December Jobs Report on Cheddar News

Milton Ezrati speaks to Cheddar News about what to expect in the December jobs report

2022 Predictions from PR Experts

Top PR Execs, including Vested's Binna Kim, Give Their Predictions for 2022.

Vested Welcomes Red Lab Technologies

Acquisition strengthen's Vested's digital capabilities to better serve our clients.

Vested named to Forbes' list of Best PR Firms