LOWELL (KFSM) -- Many business leaders in Northwest Arkansas attended the 22nd annual luncheon in Rogers to discuss the economy.
The vice president of Dillards, Bill Dillard III, was the moderator along with other prominent speakers. They focused on the economic news of the day and the drivers that are going to make 2016 different from 2015.
On the global level, business leaders also talked about the slowing of China's growth. Nationally, they talked about the increasing interest rate environment.
They also brought up local matters, discussing whether large employers announced job losses or job gains, and how that's affecting the region moving forward.
"It's a great time for local leaders to network, see each other across industries, and maybe exchange information that makes us all better off in the long run," said Kathy Deck, director center for business and economic research.
About 30 students from the University of Arkansas, along with 15 students from Springdale High School, attended the luncheon to network with business professionals in the region.