All presenting economists agreed Puerto Rico lacks a strong engine for sustained economic expansion. ^[1] Estudios Técnicos projected a 1.4% contraction in Puerto Rico real gross national product for fiscal year 2027. ^[2][4] Joelle Scally of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York stated Puerto Rico economic activity has remained virtually unchanged for the past two years. ^[3] Economists identified upcoming federal Medicaid funding reductions after September 2027 as a major fiscal risk, with an estimated annual budget impact of up to $3.8 billion. ^[5] Economists speaking at the Puerto Rico Fiscal Oversight Board annual economic symposium stated the island's economy remains stagnant, with tourism, pharmaceutical manufacturing and reconstruction spending failing to offset high energy costs, inflation and population decline. ^[6] V2A Consulting reported commercial electricity rates in Puerto Rico have increased 31% since 2019, estimating a 20% energy cost increase removes $935 million annually from the local economy. ^[7]