Areas of Research

The CEO Policy Institute produces independent, fact-based research on the economic and social challenges shaping markets and societies worldwide. Our work blends academic rigor with policy relevance, helping leaders in business, government, and finance make informed decisions.

We study issues that cut across borders—ranging from growth and productivity to equity, labor, sustainability, and global flows—and aim to advance a more resilient, inclusive, and competitive world economy.

Fiscal Policy, Taxes, and Public Investment

We examine how governments worldwide mobilize revenues and allocate resources. Our research situates budgets, deficits, and public investment in the broader context of growth, productivity, and societal priorities, viewing fiscal choices as tools to achieve long-term prosperity rather than ends in themselves.

Child Labor and Human Rights

Our global research on child labor explores how labor standards and enforcement affect children’s access to education, safe work, and fair compensation. We assess policies across regions, document risks where protections are weakening, and partner with international coalitions to advance children’s rights in global supply chains.

Economic Growth and Productivity

We investigate how institutions, policies, and markets support or hinder growth across advanced, emerging, and developing economies. Our focus is on achieving sustainable full employment and rising living standards worldwide.

Education and Human Capital

We analyze the role of education systems in reducing inequality and building human capital globally. From access to quality schooling in emerging markets to debates on higher education in advanced economies, we identify policies that close outcome gaps and prepare talent for the future of work.

Green Economics and Sustainability

We study how public investment, regulation, and tax incentives can drive the transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient economies. Our work highlights pathways for sustainable energy, food security, and resource management that balance economic opportunity with environmental stewardship.

Global Health Systems

We assess healthcare systems around the world through the lens of access, affordability, and equity. Our work pays particular attention to disparities in health outcomes, the burden of costs on households, and the economic consequences of unequal access to care.

Migration and Labor Mobility

We explore how migration policies affect labor markets, wages, and economic integration. Our research emphasizes reforms that balance national labor needs with the protection of workers’ rights and the benefits of cross-border talent flows.

Inequality and Poverty

We examine global trends in income inequality, economic mobility, and poverty reduction. Our work highlights how different policy approaches—from social safety nets to inclusive growth strategies—shape equity and opportunity across regions.

Jobs, Labor Markets, and Employment

We analyze employment trends worldwide, from automation and AI adoption to persistent underemployment and informality in developing economies. Our research focuses on policies that expand decent work, strengthen labor participation, and adapt to shifting global labor dynamics.

Wages and Living Standards

We track wage trends across countries, highlighting the growing disconnect between productivity and earnings. Our research identifies policy decisions that shape income distribution and proposes reforms to ensure that global growth translates into shared prosperity.

Minimum Wage and Fair Pay

We study how minimum wage policies affect workers, firms, and economies across different contexts. Our global analysis shows how setting fair wage floors can reduce inequality, support demand, and improve economic resilience.

Race, Ethnicity, and Inclusion

Our research highlights how ethnic and racial minorities experience unequal access to opportunity worldwide. We focus on policies that foster inclusion, reduce discrimination, and ensure equitable participation in global labor markets.

Raising Global Wages

Through thought leadership and convenings with policymakers, academics, and civic leaders worldwide, we elevate wage growth as a global priority. Our agenda explores solutions to raise pay and address structural imbalances in labor markets.

Regulation and Governance

We study the role of regulation in shaping economies, challenging claims that regulations impede growth. Our research shows how well-designed rules—from environmental protections to financial stability frameworks—can foster innovation, create jobs, and secure long-term benefits.

Retirement and Aging Populations

We examine how nations are adapting to aging demographics, focusing on retirement systems, pension reform, and the future of social protection. Our work advocates for universal, secure, and sustainable retirement solutions.

Trade and Globalization

We analyze the impacts of trade flows, investment, and globalization on industries, wages, and competitiveness. Our work explores strategies for fairer trade agreements, addressing currency manipulation, and strengthening national and global supply chains.

Labor Standards and Worker Voice

We research how unions, collective bargaining, and labor protections contribute to building resilient middle classes. Our global perspective highlights both the erosion of worker rights and opportunities to restore balance in modern labor markets.

Global Connections and Capital Flows

We track the movement of goods, services, people, capital, and ideas across borders. Our research explores how these flows reshape economic opportunity, governance challenges, and business strategies in an interconnected world.

The CEO Policy Institute’s global research spans the full spectrum of issues shaping economic regulation, labor markets, sustainability, and prosperity. By combining independent analysis with global reach, we provide leaders with insights to navigate uncertainty, design better policies, and unlock long-term value in a complex and interconnected world.