CFOs optimistic on growth prospects

More than one in six finance chiefs at British companies believe the UK economy will remain steady over the coming year, according to a survey by the recruitment firm Robert Half.

Nearly a quarter foresee growth over the next 12 months, while only 14 per cent expect the economy to contract.

Publicly listed and private company chief financial officers proved the most optimistic, with the vast majority expecting the economy to grow or remain steady. Public sector finance chiefs were less confident, with 26 per cent anticipating a contraction in the economy.

Overall, 35 per cent expect the business services sector to grow the most over the next year, while 24 per cent expect the financial services sector to head the charts.