An opinion column published by The Palm Beach Post explores the continued emergence of the Palm Beaches as “Wall Street South,” examining how shifts in business climate, workforce, and regional collaboration are reshaping where financial services firms and business leaders choose to operate.
The op-ed, authored by Rick Slater, BDB Board Member and Managing Director at Kaufman Rossin, and Kelly Smallridge, President and CEO of the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County, frames the Palm Beaches not as a replacement for traditional financial centers, but as a complementary business hub aligned with New York and other global markets.
Why It Matters for the Palm Beaches
Perspective pieces like this help shape how business leaders, investors, and decision-makers view the region’s long-term economic trajectory. Thought leadership from local business and economic development leaders elevates the conversation beyond migration headlines, highlighting strategy, collaboration, and sustainable growth as key drivers of the Palm Beaches’ expanding role in financial and professional services.
Continued Economic Growth
Coverage and commentary around “Wall Street South” reflect broader momentum across the Palm Beaches, including growth in finance, technology, and professional services. These trends continue to reinforce Palm Beach County’s position as a competitive location for companies seeking access to talent, connectivity, and a strong business environment. Additionally, Kaufman Rossin’s recent survey in collaboration with the BDB reflects optimism from business leaders and a future full of growth.
Source: The Palm Beach Post op-ed, January 7, 2026.
Learn More
The Business Development Board of Palm Beach County (BDB) monitors national and international business coverage to identify trends influencing corporate relocation, expansion, and investment in the Palm Beaches. The BDB provides free, confidential services to companies considering relocation or expansion anywhere throughout the Palm Beaches—at no cost—and is supported by a privately funded membership organization of local business leaders engaged in advancing the region’s economic growth through BDB programs and events. The BDB also positions the Palm Beaches as a global innovation hub through marketing efforts and branding initiatives, including Wall Street South®, an official economic development brand of the Business Development Board. Explore more on bdb.org or contact the BDB team.
Media Inquiries:
Exclusive insights and business growth trends in the Palm Beaches. Contact the Business Development Board, Palm Beach County’s public/private economic development agency, for access to insights from President and CEO Kelly Smallridge, or to coordinate an interview on Kelly’s behalf, email [email protected].
