The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth (JASDFW) hosted its Business Outlook in 2026: Japan–U.S. Perspectives seminar on February 12, attracting a capacity audience of business leaders, advisors, and professionals for an evening focused on economic analysis and bilateral discussion. The event, held at The Bonadio Group in Dallas, assembled senior executives from global financial, real estate, and advisory firms to examine economic conditions, Japanese investment approaches, and policy factors expected to influence the coming year.
George Goncalves, Managing Director at MUFG (Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group), presented a detailed outlook on the U.S. economy for 2026, including an analysis of the evolving K-shaped economy and the implications of interest rate trends. Seiji Ohtomo, Senior Vice President at Taisei Corporation USA, offered perspectives on Japanese real estate development and overseas investment patterns, drawing on nearly twenty years of international experience. The discussion was moderated by Josh Whitworth, Tax Partner at The Bonadio Group, with additional contributions from Richard Bigham, Assurance Partner, and Jay Jerose, Advisory and Consulting Partner. The panel addressed topics including merger and acquisition activity, tariffs, tax planning, and strategic considerations for Japanese and American companies operating across borders.
The seminar reached full attendance, demonstrating significant interest from the North Texas business community and reinforcing the value of JASDFW's Business Seminar Series as a venue for substantive dialogue, education, and professional networking. Lawrence P. Howorth, Chair of the Board of Directors for JASDFW, noted that such programs emphasize the importance of deliberate discussion and relationship-building between the Japanese and U.S. business sectors. The organization aims to provide a platform that delivers both practical insights and enduring connections.
This event is part of JASDFW's continued effort to strengthen U.S.–Japan relations through business education, cultural exchange, and professional engagement. The society will host another seminar titled "INNOVATION AND GROWTH: URBANIZATION AND GLOBALIZATION IN THE U.S.-JAPAN PARTNERSHIP" on February 20, featuring five speakers, with an option for online attendance. For more information on this and other programs, visit https://jasdfw.org/event/2026-japan-currents/ or the main website at http://www.jasdfw.org.
The implications of this seminar extend to businesses and professionals engaged in U.S.-Japan trade and investment. The discussion of a K-shaped economy suggests a diverging recovery where some sectors thrive while others lag, which could influence investment decisions and risk assessments. Analysis of interest rates, tariffs, and tax planning provides actionable intelligence for companies navigating cross-border operations, potentially affecting supply chains, capital allocation, and regulatory compliance. The strong turnout indicates a regional demand for nuanced, expert-led forums on international economics, highlighting Dallas-Fort Worth's role as a hub for global business dialogue. Such events contribute to a more informed commercial community, fostering relationships that can mitigate trade tensions and identify collaborative opportunities in a complex economic landscape.
