Overview
- Only 39% of respondents are optimistic about the national economy for 2026, down sharply from 65% a year earlier.
- Confidence at the firm level remains high, with 71% upbeat about their own outlook, 73% expecting higher revenue, and 64% projecting increased profits.
- Leaders plan to push innovation, with 58% saying they will introduce new products or services.
- M&A is gaining traction as a growth tactic, with 39% including deals in their 12‑month plans, up from 31% last year.
- Recession expectations are divided, as 51% do not foresee one and 26% expect one or say it has begun, while geopolitical and AI uncertainties weigh on sentiment.