INTRODUCTION
The latest Smith & Williamson Enterprise Index confirms that
confidence in the economy has risen significantly.
With a benchmark of 100 on 1 January 2013, last year saw the
Index drop as low as 90.1 in the second quarter, rising to 103.3 in
the third quarter and ending the year at 97.4. The latest Index,
recorded in the first quarter of 2014, jumped to 108.7, well above
its initial benchmark.
What do the numbers mean?
Our Enterprise Index shows confidence is at a record high, with
an overwhelming majority of wealth creators feeling positive about
the prospects for their businesses.
The inaugural Index, carried out in January 2013, recorded a
positive outlook for the economy, while the second quarter saw a
reduction in respondents' optimism. However, the third quarter
of last year saw that original confidence return with vigour, with
a record Index level of 103.3.
