全球经济状况调查：2024年第三季度（英）

Investment Rating - The report indicates a moderate decline in global confidence among accountants and CFOs, suggesting a cautious outlook for investment in the near term [4][34]. Core Insights - Global economic conditions are showing signs of slowing growth, with confidence among finance professionals at its lowest since Q4 2023, slightly below historical averages [4][5]. - The New Orders Index has declined moderately, indicating reduced demand across key regions, particularly in Western Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific [7][9]. - Cost pressures remain elevated, particularly in Western Europe, with over 60% of respondents reporting increased operating costs, although this is a decline from previous quarters [12][13]. Global and Regional Analysis - Confidence improved in North America but fell sharply in Asia Pacific, reflecting concerns about the Chinese economy and potential U.S. recession [5][8]. - The Middle East saw a significant rise in confidence, driven by resilience in non-oil economies and expectations of easier U.S. monetary policy [28]. - South Asia's confidence increased, with India projected to be the fastest-growing major economy, benefiting from strong infrastructure investment [29]. Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) - CFO confidence declined moderately in Q3, with a sharp fall in the New Orders Index, indicating a cautious outlook [34][35]. - The Capital Expenditure Index for CFOs fell moderately, while the Employment Index increased, suggesting mixed signals in investment and hiring [36][40]. - Despite a decline in the proportion of CFOs reporting increased operating costs, concerns remain elevated historically, indicating a cautious approach to future investments [37][38].