ZAGREB, Jan 15 (Hina) - The value of the Croatian business optimism index (IPO) fell in January to 48.2 from December's 49.3 points. This fall was the results of the decrease in optimism of big companies, although small and
medium-sized companies showed greater expectations in a survey conducted by the Croatian Employers' Association (HUP). The third survey of the HUP was conducted among 50 Croatian firms. Of them, a half were big companies and a half were small and medium-sized. According to the survey, the biggest hindering factors for a rise in optimism were insufficient demand, high interest rates, taxation policy and corruption. The small factors of hindrance according to respondents are the currency rate of kuna, strong competition and inflation. The IPO is an indicator of confidence of business people in the economy in the coming period and a good sign of basic macro-economi
ZAGREB, Jan 15 (Hina) - The value of the Croatian business optimism
index (IPO) fell in January to 48.2 from December's 49.3 points.
This fall was the results of the decrease in optimism of big
companies, although small and medium-sized companies showed
greater expectations in a survey conducted by the Croatian
Employers' Association (HUP).
The third survey of the HUP was conducted among 50 Croatian firms.
Of them, a half were big companies and a half were small and medium-
sized.
According to the survey, the biggest hindering factors for a rise in
optimism were insufficient demand, high interest rates, taxation
policy and corruption.
The small factors of hindrance according to respondents are the
currency rate of kuna, strong competition and inflation.
The IPO is an indicator of confidence of business people in the
economy in the coming period and a good sign of basic macro-economic
variables.
The scale of its value is marked from zero to 100.
Its absolute value is not important but the relations in the points
in comparison to previous periods.
The IPO serves as a reliable benchmark for investors.
(hina) ms