Global economy & markets

The most attractive business locations for SMEs

The International Business Compass ranks 174 countries by economic, regulatory, and labour force conditions to allow small and midsize enterprises interested in expanding their export business or their overseas production a first look at new markets.

US finance decision-makers less confident

Finance executives in business and industry continued to express slightly lower confidence about their own businesses and about the US economy. Sentiment remains positive overall, according to a new survey.

Where multinationals are investing

Global foreign direct investment dropped 16% in 2014, but multinational companies and other large investors saw substantial growth opportunities in East and Southeast Asia, according to a 2015 United Nations study.

Fraud and corruption viewed as widespread in fast-growing markets

Sixty-one per cent of workers in fast-growth markets believe that bribery and corruption are widespread in their country, according to an EY report focused on Europe, the Middle East, India, and Africa. With pressure on companies to find new pockets for revenue growth, fraud concerns remain high.

The 5 biggest global business risks

Business leaders’ attention is shifting to geopolitical tensions and societal instability, which dominate the World Economic Forum’s 2015 list of top global risks. Find out how multinationals are likely to prepare for these emerging risks.

6 key considerations for success in 2015

Continuing geopolitical instability, coupled with concern about over-regulation, means CEOs are less optimistic about global economic growth than they were in 2014, according to a survey by PwC. The research also reveals widespread concern about the availability of key skills.

37% of workers in UK survey say they plan to change jobs in 2015

A survey by the Institute of Leadership & Management shows that 37% of workers plan to switch jobs in 2015, up sharply from previous years. One-quarter of workers looking to leave say they feel underappreciated, and most who plan to leave are seeking greater career progression.

How to thrive in changing times

Organisations are turning to the finance function to help deal with changes, complexity, and disruptive ideas. Four prominent executives offer tips on thriving in today’s marketplace.

5 habits of thriving manufacturers

Manufacturing companies remain concerned about regulation, but a rising number of US firms in the sector are thriving, according to a McGladrey report that points out the habits that separate thriving companies from ones holding steady.

Scotland independence vote raises questions for businesses

Scotland will vote next week on a referendum that could see it separate from the United Kingdom – a decision that is a source of deep uncertainty for firms in Scotland. Planning for the long-term effects of the vote is a challenge, and not just in the event of a vote for independence.
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