number of CEOs UK’s economy
London — A growing number of Britain’s business chiefs expect the country’s economy to decline over the next year, a survey of chief executives has revealed.
Some 25% of UK chief executives expect the nation’s economic fortunes to worsen this year, a figure up from 13% in 2025.
The percentage now expecting economic growth stands at 38%, down from 61% last year in a blow to business confidence in the Government’s growth agenda.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has made economic growth one of his Government’s top priorities, but the annual chief executives survey by professional services company PwC found inflation, Donald Trump’s tariffs, and conflict around the world were among the reasons cited by business chiefs for their lack of confidence in growth.
number of CEOs UK’s economy
The survey did however find that Britain remains the second-most important destination for chief executives from around the world, despite the drop in domestic economic confidence.
In a change from past years, the UK now holds this position joint with India and Germany, while the US retains the top position for investor confidence.
Marco Amitrano, senior partner of PwC UK, said: “Being the world’s second-most important investment destination for a second year running should not be underestimated. It demonstrates that the UK still looks stable in a turbulent world.
“But in now sharing that position, it’s also a wake-up call – other countries are gaining ground and working hard to market themselves globally. As a leading nation, this now points to the need to step up our game, with Government and business working together.
“This means action to support growth sectors, make the most of trade opportunities, and provide the consistency and clarity that underpins investor confidence. Falling inflation will help lay the groundwork for this, which will in turn build momentum, improve productivity and create opportunity.”
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Notes from APS Radio News
One of the websites that shows economic indicies and related information is the Office for National Statistics.
