Coastal States Bank and Snellings Walters Insurance Agency host 2026 Economic Outlook

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Thursday, March 19th, 2026

Coastal States Bank (“CSB”) hosted its 2026 Economic Outlook last
week in partnership with Snellings Walters Insurance Agency (“SWIA”). Held at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, the event welcomed more than 150 Atlanta-area business owners and leaders, including clients of both organizations.

The event featured a distinguished panel: Roger Tutterow, Economist and Professor at Kennesaw State University; Christopher Marinac, Director of Research at Brean Capital; Stephen R. Stone, President and CEO at CSB; and Steve Harmon, Principal at SWIA. Moderated by CSB’s Atlanta Regional President, Gary Dowell, the panel explored key issues shaping the regional economy, including interest rates, inflation, homebuilding and mortgage trends, insurance costs and commercial real estate.

“This year’s event provided great information for our clients and our business community,” said Dowell. “We enjoyed partnering with Snellings Walters and were pleased to add another perspective from the financial services industry, along with the incredible insights of our featured speakers.
Bringing together trusted partners and industry experts reflects CSB’s continued commitment to supporting the businesses and leaders that drive economic growth in our communities.”

Events like CSB and SWIA’s Economic Outlook give Atlanta business leaders meaningful context and connections that help navigate an evolving economic landscape.

"When business owners can see their risk clearly, they make better decisions. That's why events like this matter,” said Harmon. “Bringing together banking, insurance, and economic expertise gives our clients and community a more complete picture of what's ahead and how to prepare for it.”