U.S. CEO Confidence Index The sharp decline in U.S. CEO optimism in 2025 is largely attributed to new tariffs, trade policy uncertainty, inflation, and unpredictable government actions, reversing the post-election optimism. Image: J.P. Morgan
Conference Board CEO Confidence CEO optimism is closely tied to equity market performance, with market declines often precipitating a drop in executive confidence. Image: Deutsche Bank
CEO Confidence vs. S&P 500 Annual % Change Strong CEO confidence typically bodes well for U.S. stocks, as there’s a correlation between executive optimism and annual market performance. Image: Real Investment Advice
CEO Business Confidence Expectations for Economy The current landscape suggests a cautious yet optimistic outlook among CEOs, which could lead to increased economic activity and investment as businesses prepare for potential growth. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
S&P 500 Buybacks vs. CEO Confidence (Leading Indicator) S&P 500 buybacks are likely to rebound, as CEO confidence typically leads buybacks by 6 months. Image: Morgan Stanley Research
U.S. Corporate Sector Profits vs. CEO Confidence Weak CEO confidence suggests that U.S. corporate profits are at risk. Image: Longview Economics
U.S. Labor Market – CEO Confidence Survey vs. Jobless Claims As CEO confidence declines, the fight against inflation could cause job losses. Image: Real Investment Advice
Earnings – Conference Board CEO Confidence vs. U.S. Corporate Profits YoY Change Should investors be worried about an earnings recession? CEO confidence doesn’t bode well for U.S. corporate profits. Image: Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
CEO Confidence vs. U.S. Business Capex Weak CEO confidence does not bode well for capex. Image: Gavekal, Macrobond
CEO Business Confidence CEOs are very confident in future business conditions in the United States. Image: Longview Economics
U.S. CEO Departures and S&P 500 Index It is not a good time to be a CEO. This year is on pace to have the most CEO departures on record, at rates not seen since the Great Financial Crisis. Image: Financial Times