Business optimism at lowest level since 2002
U.S. business leaders’ confidence remained stagnant at 56.1 in May 2008 in relation to the 56.3 index in February 2008, according to the Grant Thornton LLP’s Business Optimism Index.
The survey found that U.S. business leaders’ sentiments toward the U.S. economy remain pessimistic, with only 19% expecting conditions will improve over the next six months.
The outlook for their own businesses, however, remains high with 75% feeling optimistic about their company’s growth over the next six months.
The number planning to increase staffing dropped only slightly from 36% to 35%, while a repeating 10% have plans for reductions.
|
February 2008 |
May 2008 |
| OVERALL Business Optimism Index |
56.3 |
56.1 |
| Believe U.S. economy will improve |
19% |
19% |
| Believe U.S. economy will worsen |
24% |
25% |
Very or somewhat optimistic
about own business |
75% |
75% |
Very or somewhat pessimistic
about own business |
23% |
23% |
| Plan to increase staff |
36% |
35% |
| Plan to decrease staff |
10% |
10% |
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LAST UPDATED 7/15/2008