Business Confidence Report 2025 | Your strategic compass for H2
UK & Ireland Finance Job Market determined to outperform 2024
Established in 2010, our annual report contains valuable insights from 1,800+ finance and tech business professionals. We work closely with key recruitment consultants and clients to provide the latest in market trends and salary benchmarking across all its specialist sectors across its UK, Ireland and Europe.
The data paints a picture of cautious yet defiant optimism across the corporate landscape.
Matt Wilcox | Managing director
The rising cost of living and stubbornly high inflation are also weighing heavily, with over 30% of respondents highlighting them as key inhibitors to business assurance. These pressures are not only squeezing consumer spending but are also translating into tighter margins and increased supplier costs. Adding to the strain are elevated interest rates and borrowing costs, which continue to impact access to affordable finance, particularly for growth-focused SMEs.
On the international front, the revival of trade protectionism is sending ripples throughout the UK. The introduction of increased tariffs under US President Donald Trump is raising fresh concerns for exporters and importers alike, even with the recent deal brokered between the US and UK to slash tariffs across a number of goods. Combined with geopolitical instability and ongoing global conflict, these issues are further destabilising the outlook for internationally exposed businesses.
Hiring sentiment offers further insights into how businesses are adapting. Just 13.35% of companies are actively growing their headcount, with nearly half opting for selective hiring. This cautious approach suggests that while growth is a goal, it is being pursued with prudent resource allocation. A notable 23.65% of firms are maintaining a hiring freeze, and almost 15% are actively reducing or considering reducing headcount—an indication that businesses are battening down the hatches in anticipation of continued uncertainty.
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