CEOs Mixed Over Economy

Aug. 19, 2004
A quarterly survey of over 300 CEOs by consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers finds most executives have a positive economic outlook

A quarterly survey of over 300 CEOs by consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers finds most executives have a positive economic outlook. But there are growing worries that weakening demand may slow growth for their companies this year.

About 76% of the surveyed CEOs said in the second quarter that they remained optimistic about the economy’s prospects over the next 12 months, down from 81% in the first quarter this year and 85% in the fourth quarter of 2003.

Also, 53% remain concerned about weak market demand as a possible roadblock to growth in the year ahead, said Paul Weaver, vp for PricewaterhouseCoopers’ global technology sector.

“Eroding optimism and worries about demand may be a reflection of worldwide uncertainties, a volatile political environment at home, and anticipation of further increases in interest rates,” he said

Still, Weaver noted that CEO confidence is much higher at the halfway point of 2004 versus last year. In the second quarter of 2003, only 33% of surveyed CEOs viewed the U.S. economy as “growing” compared to 89% this year. Those who identified themselves as “optimistic” about the U.S. and global economy tallied only 59% and 36%, respectively, versus 76% and 62% on those same points in the second quarter this year.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

The Road Ahead: 2025 Trucking and Fleet Insights

Discover how fleet operators are impacted by challenges like driver onboarding delays and complex compliance, and the critical need for technology to boost efficiency and cut ...

Driving Growth: How to Manage More Freight

Ready to grow your trucking business? Whether you have 25 or 200 trucks, this guide offers practical tips and success stories to help you expand with confidence. Discover how ...

How to Maximize Fleet Management with Vehicle Bypass

Join us on February 18th to learn how truck weigh station bypass systems boost fleet performance and driver satisfaction.

Optimizing your fleet safety program using AI

Learn how AI supports fleet safety programs with tools for compliance monitoring, driver coaching and incident analysis to reduce risks and improve efficiency.