Optimism in regard to the UK economy amongst business leaders rose slightly to -58 in March 2025 from -64 in February, the Institute of Directors (IoD) recently found, but still ‘remains low’.
Confidence in business leaders’ own organisations also increased to +5 from +2 in February.
The IoD found that the biggest concerns among business leaders were labour costs, supply chain inflation and energy costs.
Anna Leach, Chief Economist at the IoD, said: ‘The confidence of business leaders across the UK remained depressed in March, with this month’s improvement still leaving the index around Covid pandemic lows. With the NICs and minimum wage increases now coming into effect, headcount and investment intentions remain well below the average of the last decade, albeit a little higher than they were.
‘And business leaders are highly concerned about costs – with three quarters saying that employment costs are the biggest cost driver they face.’
10/04/2025
View all >
14/07/2025
IHT on pensions most unpopular tax rise
Inheritance Tax (IHT) on pensions is the most unpopular of the tax raising measures introduced by the Labour government during its first year, according to a survey.
READ MORE
HMRC to fine crypto investors
UK-based holders of cryptoassets will have to provide personal details to crypto service providers or face penalties of up to £300 from HMRC.
HMRC plans risk overreach
HMRC plans to introduce a tax avoidance criminal offence risks overreach, the Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) has warned.
Sign up to keep in touch to receive our latest news and industry updates.
* *
Yes, I would like to receive email updates providing me with the latest finance news, advice guides and details of future events.