Confidence among surveyed CEOs dipped to 48, below the neutral 50 threshold that separates negative from positive responses. Sixty-four percent of CEOs are preparing for a mild economic slowdown combined with slightly higher inflation, a scenario described as stagflation, while 22% expect a balanced economy with trend growth and easing inflation. Geopolitical risks, cyber threats, and AI rank as top concerns. Eighty-one percent expect AI to fundamentally change most job roles within five years, though only 9% see that occurring now. Trade-policy uncertainty, including threatened high tariffs on Chinese goods, remains a major risk. Hiring and capital investment intentions rose modestly. The survey covered 130 Fortune Global 500 CEOs from Sept. 22 through Oct. 6.
"By the numbers: Confidence dipped one point from the previous quarter, to 48, per the report from the Conference Board, a nonpartisan think tank and the Business Council, an association of CEOs. A number below 50 reflects more negative than positive responses. 64% of CEOs said that they are preparing for a mild economic slowdown with slightly increased inflation pressure - a one-two punch known as stagflation. Only 22% said they were preparing for a "balanced economy with trend growth and gradual reduction in inflation pressure.""
"Friction point: The CEOs said geopolitical, cyber and AI are their top concerns. While 81% said they expect AI to "fundamentally change most job roles in their organization within five years," only 9% said that's already happening. The big picture: The White House's trade policy has bounced around all year. At the moment, President Trump is threatening 100% tariffs on Chinese goods, a move that would be devastating for American companies."
Read at Axios
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