According to the 2014 Bank of America Merrill Lynch CFO Outlook survey, U.S. businesses are putting growth plans in motion, bolstered by greater confidence in the economy and their own company performance.
Notable findings from the Outlook:
- CFOs are more positive about the U.S. and global economies than they’ve been since 2008.
- 94% of CFOs say they plan to pursue new growth strategies in 2014. Most companies are expecting to increase sales in 2014, while also expanding or maintaining the size of their workforce.
- 92% of CFOs expect international revenues to stay the same or increase this year.
- Unanticipated labor costs, including healthcare, is the leading risk management concern.
To access the full report and expert insights, visit the CFO Outlook website for the detailed report, video highlights and expert perspective delving into five key themes that are top-of-mind for businesses today: rising economy, accelerating growth, offsetting healthcare, engaging overseas and measuring risk.
For the past 16 years, Bank of America Merrill Lynch has regularly surveyed financial officers at U.S. companies to better understand how they view the economy, their companies and leading business themes.
The 2014 CFO Outlook reflects insights gathered by Granite Research Consulting, which conducted 751 interviews with U.S. financial executives — primarily CFOs — between September 23, 2013 and November 1, 2013. Survey participants represent a cross section of American companies and regions.
To visit the CFO Outlook website, click here.