How are New Zealand businesses feeling about their economic future? According to the latest [Quarterly Survey of Business Opinion] (https://www.nzier.org.nz/publications/nziers-qsbo-shows-continued-lift-in-business-confidence) (QSBO) from the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research (NZIER), confidence is on the rise in 2025.
A net 23% of companies expect general economic conditions to improve over the coming months on a seasonally adjusted basis. That’s up from the net 9% in the previous quarter.
But what does improved business confidence mean for your business?
5 ways improved business confidence may impact your company
The past few years have been a turbulent time for the Kiwi small business community. Costs have been rising and, for some, it’s been a battle to survive the lean times.
But with stats now showing an improved outlook for the future, let’s take a look at what the potential outcomes could be for your own business?
Increased investment and expansion
A more optimistic economic outlook means you’re more likely to think about investing in your own operations. This could mean buying new equipment, expanding your premises or hiring more staff. It might even give you the impetus to develop new products and services aimed at this anticipated growth in demand from your customers.
Enhanced risk appetite and innovation
Higher confidence in the market might encourage you to get innovative and take some calculated risks. This could involve plans to enter new markets, adopt new technologies or experiment with different business models. Ultimately, your aim is to ride the wave of confidence and make your business more competitive – and more attractive to your core audience.
Improved access to finance
A buoyant economic environment can make lenders and investors more willing to provide capital to your business. This makes it easier for you to secure loans, lines of credit or investment funding, helping you support your expansion plans and financial stability.
Stronger customer demand and sales
When businesses are more confident about the economy, this can often be mirrored with a more positive mood among consumers and B2B customers. If you’re lucky, this can translate into higher demand for your goods and services, leading to increased sales and revenue.
Greater resilience and adaptability
When you’re more confident about your business outlook, you’re also generally more resilient in the face of economic challenges. With the global economic situation still so uncertain and volatile, having a willingness to adapt can be a major benefit. This ability to ‘ride out the storm’ will help you overcome any economic obstacles and continue to grow.
Talk to us about the future of your business
None of us has a crystal ball to know how the future will unfold. But having a confident and adaptable outlook will help you build more solid foundations for your business strategy.
Come and talk to the team about your levels of confidence and what we can do to assist
