Expanded Coverage

I'm Bill Farley, the author behind "The Economic Scoreboard." In 2024, my Substack focused on the financial intricacies of college football realignment, attracting a dedicated audience of industry professionals and keen observers. I'm now expanding my coverage to encompass the entire national spectrum of sports, entertainment venues, and tourism. My goal is to provide you with expert commentary and analysis on the most significant financial deals and strategic developments within these dynamic sectors.

My perspective is shaped by a rich and varied career in economic development and urban planning. As the former Economic Development Director for the City of Sacramento, I have a proven track record of navigating complex negotiations and delivering impactful results, earning a reputation for "big deals" that transformed the city's economic landscape. This practical experience is further strengthened by my academic background, holding a PhD in Public Policy and Administration with a specialization in Urban and Regional Planning.

This newsletter will bridge my recent focus on college athletics with my broader expertise and recent PhD studies (VCU ‘21). I'll be applying the same analytical rigor and data-driven approach to uncover the financial underpinnings of professional sports, the development of entertainment hubs, and the economic engines of national tourism. Join me as we delve into the deals that drive attention, investment, and visitors across the country.

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To find out more about the company that provides the tech for this newsletter, visit Substack.com.

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Subscribe to The Financial Playbook by Bill Farley, PhD.

Tracking the financial plays that shape the national landscape of sports, entertainment, and tourism. Join Bill Farley for expert analysis and commentary on the biggest deals driving these industries.

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Oregon State/USC/VCU alum. Negotiated deals to keep the NBA Kings in Sacramento and finance a Triple A stadium. Formerly on faculty at USC (public finance/policy analysis). Ph.D. in Public Policy. Enjoy writing about college sports financing.