Increasing optimism, but momentum is slowing
In the Spring 2018 edition of the Deloitte SEB CFO Survey the good times continue, but the upward trend is slowing somewhat. Swedish CFOs are among the most optimistic in the European Union in terms of a clear investment and hiring agenda where organic growth is a top priority, while shortages of skilled professionals has become their main concern. Looking ahead, Swedish CFOs have become more upbeat regarding their financial prospects compared to three months ago, though lagging behind their Nordic and EU peers. Sweden is coming from a situation of high economic growth while for other EU and Nordic countries, growth is still on the rise.
Business conditions vary significantly across economic sectors, and despite the current turmoil in the Swedish residential building sector, Construction industry CFOs are still highly optimistic. The survey also shows that to a fair extent, digital technologies are starting to be integrated into their companies’ strategic decision-making.