The well-known economist is frequently quoted by news organizations, not just around the country, but around the world. He has held his position since he joined Wachovia, a Wells Fargo predecessor, in 2002 as the company’s chief economist.

Prior to his current position, Silvia worked on Capitol Hill as senior economist for the U.S. Senate Joint Economic Committee and chief economist for the U.S. Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee. Before that, he was chief economist of Kemper Funds and managing director of Scudder Kemper Investments.

Newsmakers Breakfasts are an open-forum discussion with people in the news; questions are asked by the audience.

The presenting sponsor is Financial Independence Group, based in Cornelius. The Breakfast Sponsors are Dixie Dean, with Allen Tate in Cornelius, and The McIntosh Law Firm in Davidson. The Coffee Sponsors are Davidson Wealth Managment, James Funeral Home and Master Title Agency.