Executives’ optimism about economic conditions globally and at home faded as geopolitical tensions escalated, and concern shifted toward geopolitical instability and energy prices.
As millions of baby boomer business owners approach retirement over the next decade, the country faces the largest wave of small-business ownership transitions in modern history.
Overall global economic is sentiment improving, with businesses more positive about future growth in line with the IMF’s upward growth revisions; several central banks cut interest rates in December.