Business optimism softens globally amid trade policy concerns 

Onome Amuge

Global business optimism has softened in the second quarter of 2025, according to Dun & Bradstreet’s (D&B) latest Global Business Optimism Insights (GBOI) report. The quarterly sentiment tracker from the global business information provider registered a 1.3 per cent decline in overall confidence, reflecting persistent headwinds stemming from trade policy uncertainty and its broader impact across sectors.

The GBOI, which aggregates sentiment across five key indices  including  growth expectations, supply chain continuity, financial confidence, investment sentiment, and ESG outlook, revealed particular vulnerability among export-oriented industries. These sectors are seen struggling with heightened cost pressures and volatile demand as a consequence of escalating tariffs and evolving trade barriers.

“While some supply chain disruptions have eased through diversification efforts, inflationary pressures and tight liquidity continue to impact financial confidence globally,” the report noted, adding that  investment sentiment remains cautious, except in AI and automation, where optimism is growing.

On the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) front, the report indicates that while businesses maintain a focus on environmental sustainability, the emphasis on social and governance considerations has seen a slight moderation.

Regionally, the dip in sentiment was most pronounced in developed economies, where optimism contracted by 1.7 per cent. In contrast, emerging markets demonstrated resilience, with sentiment holding steady overall. 

Meanwhile, medium-sized enterprises bucked the broader trend, reporting a 7.8 per cent increase in optimism, while both small and large firms registered declines. Interestingly, small businesses within emerging markets defied the global downturn, experiencing modest gains.

D&B’s report showcased a global business environment addressing policy-induced uncertainties, cost pressures, and strategic realignments with caution. Companies are increasingly focused on balancing risk mitigation with the pursuit of opportunities in an intricate economic landscape.

Admin