Christopher Thornberg is Founding Partner of Beacon Economics, LLC and widely considered to be one of the nation’s leading economists. An expert in economic forecasting, regional economics, employment and labor markets, economic policy, and industry and real estate analysis, he was one of the earliest and most accurate predictors of the subprime mortgage market crash that began in 2007, and of the global economic recession that followed.
He is a member of California State Treasurer John Chiang’s Council of Economic Advisors, the body that advises the Treasurer on emerging strengths and vulnerabilities in the state’s economy.
Widely quoted in the media, he has appeared on NBC’s The Today Show, ABC’s Nightline, CNN, FOX News Channel, NPR, and is regularly quoted in major national and California dailies including the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Chicago Tribune, in addition to making presentations to some of the world’ s leading companies.
Dr. Thornberg has been involved in a number of special studies measuring the effect of important events on the economy. These include the NAFTA treaty, the California electricity crisis, port security, California’s water transfer programs, and the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
Prior to launching Beacon, he was an economist with UCLA’s Anderson Forecast where he regularly authored economic outlooks for California, Los Angeles, and the East Bay. He also developed a number of specialized forecasts for various regions and industries.
Dr. Thornberg holds a Ph.D in Business Economics from The Anderson School at UCLA, and a B.S. degree in Business Administration from the State University of New York at Buffalo. (Click for Dr. Thornberg’s full bio)