Advertisement
Kyodo/AP/Press Association Images
Economic Growth

Business expects modest growth, while confidence remains lower

KBC Bank Business Sentiment Survey reveals “two economies” with businesses expecting modest growth but confidence in economy remaining low.

IRISH BUSINESS EXPECTS small levels of improvement in the final quarter of 2010 but sentiments among businesses about an Irish economic recovery have declined, according to a KBC Bank sentiment survey released today.

Job cuts are continuing, while construction and consumer orientated companies are continuing to be weakened. Companies focused on manufacturing and business have strengthened.

Four out of five companies feel the recent increase in market uncertainty reflects the overall uncertainty in the Irish economy, according to the KBC Bank/Chartered Accountants Ireland Business Sentiment Survey.

A slight majority of businesses are in favour of a tough budget, but opinions on whether an early election would help differ.