Thirty-nine percent of business executives say they are optimistic about the U.S. economy’s outlook over the next 12 months, according to the first-quarter AICPA and CIMA Economic Outlook Survey. This is 28 percent higher than the fourth quarter of 2025. In addition, the percentage of business executives who expect a recession by 2027 dropped from 52 percent to 36 percent.
When asked their top concern, participants cited domestic economic conditions, employee and benefits costs, and materials/supplies/equipment costs.
“Business leaders are feeling a renewed sense of optimism this quarter, both about the U.S. economy and the near‑term prospects for their own organizations,” Tom Hood, Association of International Certified Professional Accountants executive vice president of business engagement and growth, said. “While economic conditions, workforce costs, and input prices remain key areas of focus, we’re encouraged to see inflation pressures easing earlier in the quarter.”
Projected revenue growth for the next 12 months is 2.9 percent, and profit expectations are projected to be 1.6 percent.
Hiring levels were mostly unchanged.
Businesses planning expansion increased to 55 percent.
The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants quarterly surveys CEOs, chief financial officers, controllers and others who hold executive and senior management accounting roles.