Trendsetter Barometer: Business outlook report - Optimism about US economy bounces back for private companies

07/19/2012 by Private company services

This PwC publication tracks the business issues and best practices of privately held US growth businesses. It incorporates the views of 240 chief executive officers (CEOs/CFOs): 135 from companies in the product sector and 105 in the service sector, averaging $352 million in enterprise revenue/sales, and including large, $500M-plus private companies.

Survey highlights

  • Optimism about the US economy rose sharply among US private companies in the first quarter of 2012, climbing to 60% — nearly the same level seen this time last year.
  • Confidence in the world economy also rose, to 29%, but the overriding sentiment remains one of uncertainty (61%).
  • 90% of Trendsetter companies expect positive revenue growth over the next year.
  • Planned operational spending and capital investment remain strong, with international companies still leading the way.
  • Hiring plans hold steady, with 59% of Trendsetter companies looking to add new employees.
  • Potential lack of demand is still the top perceived barrier to growth, cited by 68% of companies.