Global Business Optimism Continues to Climb as Businesses Indicate Sustained Confidence
Global supply chain continuity index continues to decline amid disruptions in trade routes
While there has been continued improvement in business optimism, Dun & Bradstreet’s forward-looking report reveals a persistently declining optimism in the Global Supply Chain Continuity Index, which slipped 8% for Q2, following a 6% decline in Q1. The primary reason for this decline is the forced rerouting of shipments due to geopolitical events across major trade routes. Dun & Bradstreet’s survey data shows that 1 in 7 businesses find their operations were impacted by supply chain disruption. However, businesses are adapting by implementing contingency plans and diversifying their supplier base across different regions.
“The continued improvement in overall business optimism indicates that businesses are regaining stability after grappling with inflationary pressures and global monetary tightening,” said
Key findings from the Q2 report reveals:
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The Global Business Optimism Index increased 5.4%, with businesses feeling more optimistic about the global macroeconomic environment, particularly regarding inflation. For the first time since the launch of the survey in 2023, businesses are optimistic about input costs, aiding a recovery in optimism for manufacturers globally.
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The Global Supply Chain Continuity Index continues to slip, declining 8% in the quarter. Geopolitical tensions are causing supply chain disruptions across major trade routes, compelling businesses to adopt lengthier alternative routes. Nearly 1 in 6 businesses are increasing investments in supply chain risk management to mitigate disruptions.
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The Global Business Financial Confidence Index was essentially unchanged for the quarter, falling 0.4%. Firms remain optimistic about operating conditions supporting balance sheets. Among advanced economies, the index fell 2.3% but improved 5.5% for emerging economies.
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The Global Business Investment Confidence Index fell 5.4%. The largest drop in confidence was with small businesses in advanced economies, recording a 17% decline. The index decline signals a realigned consensus that major central banks in advanced economies will begin to start a period of looser monetary policy around mid-year – later than previously anticipated – delaying investment decisions. Nearly 1 in 6 businesses report that recent geopolitical events have impeded their investment plans.
- The Global Business ESG Index dipped 3%, though firms maintain a favorable view toward adopting sustainability. ESG sentiment in both emerging and advanced economies declined 3%, although the former maintains a higher optimism level.
*Descriptions and information about the indices can be found on page 25 of the report.
"Optimism regarding input costs has reached an all-time high, contributing to a surge in optimism among manufacturers worldwide, which has increased by 17%,” said
About the Global Business Optimism Insights Report
The Global Business Optimism Insights report is a synthesis of data from a comprehensive survey encompassing 32 economies, covering approximately 10,000 businesses and 17 sectors, alongside insights from
View the full report here.
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