Business Outlook Survey

• October 18, 2021

  Business Outlook Survey―Third Quarter of 2021

  Firms anticipate stronger demand as pandemic conditions improve, according to results from the Business Outlook Survey in the third quarter of 2021. However, many businesses face supply constraints that will limit their sales and put upward pressure on their costs. Together, these demand pressures and supply challenges are driving widespread plans to invest, hire staff and increase prices.

  Content Type(s): Publications, Business Outlook Survey
• July 5, 2021

  Business Outlook Survey—Summer 2021

  Results from the summer Business Outlook Survey point to continued improvement in business sentiment. Firms tied to high-contact services still face challenges but are becoming more confident that sales will pick up as vaccination rates rise. This suggests an important broadening in the recovery ahead.

  Content Type(s): Publications, Business Outlook Survey
• April 12, 2021

  Business Outlook Survey—Spring 2021

  Results from the spring Business Outlook Survey suggest that business sentiment continues to improve. Firms reported less uncertainty related to the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthening demand from weak levels. Still, the recovery remains uneven, with firms tied to high-contact services facing ongoing challenges.

  Content Type(s): Publications, Business Outlook Survey
• January 11, 2021

  Business Outlook Survey—Winter 2020–21

  In the winter Business Outlook Survey, firms pointed to a continued recovery supported by strengthening domestic and foreign demand, particularly in goods-producing sectors. Still, firms expect the recovery to be uneven; in particular, businesses that have been hit hard by the pandemic anticipate challenging times ahead.

  Content Type(s): Publications, Business Outlook Survey