07.29.2016
The VBR/EPR Business Conditions Survey for the second quarter of 2016/third quarter of 2016 has been released. Most responses to the question about the state’s overall business climate outlook were neutral (58%). The remaining responses were split between optimistic (22%) and pessimistic (20%). More than 60 percent of respondents (61%) shared negative outlooks specifically with ease of hiring for available positions. The accommodations sector had the most optimistic outlook on the general business climate while the utilities sector had the least optimistic outlook. For this reporting period the diffusion index shows a decline in optimism from Q2 2016 to Q3 2016 indicating that Vermont CEOs continue to feel neutral about the business climate for the coming three months.
The Business Conditions Survey is conducted in partnership between the Vermont Business Roundtable and Economic & Policy Resources. The nine question survey of the 96 members of the Vermont Business Roundtable captures a glimpse of how Vermont business leaders see the state economy. The survey asks business leaders how their businesses have fared in the recent past and how they view the future. Sentiments regarding the current and expected business climate and the expected impact on hiring and investing decisions are also surveyed. Included in the standard survey is a question asking roundtable members for opinions on a current debate in public policy. Along with providing a snapshot of the Vermont business climate the survey allows Vermonters to see how these markers change over time.
The survey results are attached in the pdf below.
