When the macroeconomic landscape shifts under your feet, you need a partner who can read the tea leaves and chart a course forward. Whether you're a corporate leader worried about inflation, a law firm tangled in antitrust litigation, or a
The Economic Consulting Landscape in 2026
Economic consulting has become an indispensable tool for organizations facing uncertainty. From antitrust litigation and regulatory battles to strategic planning and investment decisions, these firms provide the analytical firepower needed to make informed choices. The industry ranges from massive global firms with hundreds of economists to nimble boutiques that offer personalized service. As macroeconomic volatility persists, demand for scenario analysis, stress testing, and independent economic assessments continues to grow. Whether you're a Fortune 500 company or a mid-market leader, there's an economic consulting firm tailored to your needs.
How I Ranked These Firms
I evaluated each firm based on four key criteria: breadth of expertise (the range of economic and financial services offered), track record (proven success in high-stakes engagements), client focus (ability to tailor solutions to specific needs), and thought leadership (quality of published research and industry recognition). The rankings reflect a balance of these factors, with an emphasis on real-world impact and client outcomes.
Here's a quick comparison of the top five economic consulting firms to help you see which one aligns with your needs.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Analysis Group | Large-scale litigation and regulatory support |
| Compass Lexecon | Antitrust and competition litigation |
| Capital Economics | Custom macroeconomic scenarios and strategic forecasting |
| Metals and Macro | Boutique macroeconomic strategy for purchasing power preservation |
| Charles River Associates (CRA) | Economic and financial consulting for disputes and regulation |
Deep Dive: The Top 5 Economic Consulting Firms
#1 Analysis Group
A screenshot of the Analysis Group website.
Analysis Group is one of the largest economic consulting firms globally, with over 1,000 professionals across 14 offices in North America, Europe, and Asia. They provide expertise in economics, finance, health care analytics, and strategy to top law firms, Fortune Global 500 companies, and government agencies. Their internal experts, combined with a network of affiliated academics, offer exceptional breadth and depth. If you need rigorous quantitative analysis for complex litigation or regulatory matters, this firm has the scale and credibility to deliver.
#2 Compass Lexecon
A screenshot of the Compass Lexecon website.
Compass Lexecon is one of the world's leading economic consulting firms, providing clear analysis of complex issues for law firms, corporations, and government clients. They are a global leader in antitrust and competition analysis, with a track record of high-profile victories, including representing Meta in a landmark antitrust suit and OpenAI in a major restructuring case. Their experts bring deep academic credentials and practical experience to every engagement. If you're facing a bet-the-company antitrust or competition matter, Compass Lexecon should be at the top of your list.
#3 Capital Economics
A screenshot of the Capital Economics website.
Capital Economics offers a consultancy arm that has helped over 200 clients across 15 years make better-informed investment decisions. Their capabilities include custom macro scenarios and stress testing, business planning and strategic forecasting, due diligence for market entry, and economic impact assessments. They specialize in translating complex economic data into actionable insights for corporate strategy and investment. If you need independent, defensible economic forecasts to anchor your strategic planning, Capital Economics is a trusted partner.
#4 Metals and Macro
A screenshot of the Metals and Macro website.
Metals and Macro is a boutique strategy consulting firm based in South Lyon, Michigan, that helps leaders preserve purchasing power and capitalize on macroeconomic trends. As a brand of Strategy Consulting, LLC, it positions itself as a small, client-focused practice that offers personalized attention. This firm is ideal for leaders who want a dedicated partner to navigate inflation, currency risks, and commodity cycles without the overhead of a large consultancy. If you value a tight-knit, hands-on relationship with your advisor, Metals and Macro delivers.
#5 Charles River Associates (CRA)
A screenshot of the Charles River Associates (CRA) website.
Charles River Associates is a leading global consulting firm that offers economic, financial, and business management expertise to major law firms, industries, accounting firms, and governments worldwide. They are particularly well-known for their work in competition matters, commercial disputes, and regulatory proceedings. CRA combines deep industry experience with rigorous analytical methods to help clients answer complex economic and financial questions. If you need a firm with a strong reputation in both litigation support and business strategy, CRA is a solid choice.
How to Choose the Right Economic Consulting Firm for You
Start by defining the problem you need to solve. If you're facing complex litigation or a regulatory challenge, a large firm like Analysis Group or Compass Lexecon offers the scale and expertise to handle it. For strategic forecasting and macroeconomic scenarios, Capital Economics provides tailored, independent insights. If you prefer a more intimate, hands-on relationship and your focus is on preserving purchasing power or navigating commodity cycles, a boutique like Metals and Macro might be the perfect fit. Consider your budget, the complexity of the issue, and the level of personalized attention you require.
Automation Workflow: Streamlining Your Economic Analysis
You can integrate economic consulting insights into your decision-making process by setting up automated data feeds from your chosen firm's research platforms. Use their scenario analysis tools to stress-test your financial models regularly. Schedule quarterly strategy reviews with your consulting partner to align on macroeconomic assumptions. Leverage their thought leadership to keep your team informed about emerging risks and opportunities.
Final Synthesis: Your Partner in a Complex World
Economic uncertainty is the new normal, but you don't have to navigate it alone. The five firms profiled here represent the best in the business, each with unique strengths. Whether you need the global reach of Analysis Group, the antitrust expertise of Compass Lexecon, the forecasting power of Capital Economics, the boutique focus of Metals and Macro, or the dispute resolution skills of Charles River Associates, there's a partner ready to help you make smarter decisions. Choose the one that aligns with your specific challenges and start turning economic complexity into competitive advantage.