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Public panel discussion on regional trade accords

In today’s global marketplace, it’s increasingly important for nations to establish the rules that apply to international trade—and for business leaders to understand those rules. Whether you understand a little or a lot about regional and international trade agreements, an upcoming panel discussion at Drake University is designed to provide a broader lens on the subject.

“Negotiating Regional Trade Accords: The Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership” will begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, in Sussman Theater of Drake’s Olmsted Center, 2875 University Ave. It is free and open to the public.

Panelists include:

  • Jim McCaughan, chief executive officer of Principal Global Investors and president of global asset management for Principal Financial Group.
  • Indraneel Karlekar, head of global research for Principal Real Estate Investors.
  • Robert Blecker, economics professor at American University, where his research interests include international trade, open economy macroeconomics, and U.S. trade policy.

David Skidmore, professor of politics and international relations at Drake University and director of the Principal Financial Group Center for Global Citizenship at Drake, will moderate the panel. He will provide a background on the panel’s particular trade topic, including the countries involved, a history of negotiations between the countries, and important dates.

McCaughan is a fellow of the Institute of Actuaries. Karlekar has held senior research positions at real estate investment management firms including Cole Real Estate Investments, ING-Clarion, and AIG Global Real Estate. Blecker’s research interests include international trade, open economy macroeconomics, and U.S. trade policy.

This event is sponsored by the PFGCGC.