Hong Kong’s top finance decision makers appeared to be feeling optimistic when they participated in the American Express Global Business and Spending Monitor 2017. They had the most positive outlook among those surveyed from around the globei, and they were the most confident that the economy would grow this year. Among the local respondents, 80% were expecting modest or even substantial economic expansion during the rest of the year, up from 30% in last year’s survey.

Local finance decision makers have become less cautious about increasing spending and investments. Only 37% said they were more cautious due to domestic uncertainty, down from 66% one year ago. As was the case in last year’s survey, respondents saw external uncertainty outside Hong Kong as a greater reason for caution then domestic uncertainty. Remaining competitive was the most important business priority for 47% of respondents, and they’re prepared to invest to do that. All CFOs expected an increase in investment in 2017, with 46% predicting an increase of between 4% and 8%.