US CFOs Forecasted Revenue and Hiring Gains Early This Year
A Fed survey shows US CFOs expected 5% revenue growth and more hiring before the war. Executives remained positive despite concerns over trade and labor.
CFOs in the United States reported a strengthening economic outlook during the first months of 2026, according to a Federal Reserve survey. This positive sentiment was recorded prior to the outbreak of conflict involving Israel and Iran, which has since driven oil prices above $100 per barrel and disrupted international shipping.
The quarterly survey, conducted by the Federal Reserve banks of Richmond and Atlanta in collaboration with Duke University, polled 473 chief financial officers. While trade policy and tariffs remained a top concern for 20% of respondents, this figure has declined from nearly 40% in mid-2025. Other primary concerns included labor quality and availability, cited by 17% of participants, and the outlook for sales at 15%.
