What do phrases like "in conclusion" and "finally" signify in a speech?

Phrases such as "in conclusion" and "finally" signify that the speaker is signaling the end of the speech. These expressions serve as cues for the audience that the speaker is wrapping up their argument or presentation. By using these phrases, the speaker effectively indicates that they are summing up their points and transitioning into final remarks, reinforcing the idea that the discussion is coming to a close. This helps the audience prepare to absorb the concluding thoughts without expecting further elaboration on new topics or ideas. They play a crucial role in maintaining clarity, ensuring the audience understands that the main points have been addressed and that a summary or closing statement is forthcoming.