Levels of business confidence in the UK are creeping up as we head into 2026, largely thanks to a growing belief in technology and AI in particular – to fuel economic growth.  

The latest quarterly CFO survey from Deloitte showed the net balance of business optimism rose to -13% in Q4 from -24% in Q3, though confidence remains below historical averages.  

It showed that those making investment decisions are beginning to develop a cautious level of optimism over how the UK economy will perform in the next 12 months. A more detailed look at the survey shows that:  

  • More than half of finance chiefs (59%) have become more optimistic over the past 12 months on the potential for AI to boost the performance of their organisation, up from 39% in Q3 of 2024;  
  • Almost all of them (96%) expect to see a rise in investment in digital technology and assets by UK companies in the next five years;  
  • Corporate risk appetite (15%) has edged up from the lows seen in September (12%) but remain well below average levels (25%);  
  • CFOs who rated the level of external uncertainty as high or very high fell this quarter to 38%, compared to the last quarter at 41%.  

Deloitte’s chief economist Ian Stewart described sentiment as cautious but improving. Notably, the share of executives prioritising capital expenditure rose to a two-and-a-half-year high of 17%, which shows there is a growing – but still tentative – willingness to invest.  

“It’s clear that the contrast between improving confidence and persistent cost pressures suggests UK firms face a difficult balancing act in 2026,” says Paul Beare.  

But it’s also encouraging to see that the UK continues to grow as a hub for digital and tech investment – we’re working with lots of clients in this space and we’re noticing that many of them are making use of the UK’s tech infrastructure – whether that’s access to talented coders and engineers, or looking for backing and support from tech-focused investors.

That sentiment is backed by the news that CFOs overwhelmingly (96%) expect to see a rise in investment in digital technology and assets by UK companies over the next five years. The survey – which took place between 2nd and 14th December – also found the vast majority (77%) expect an increase in productivity growth and business performance over the same period.   

“It’s really important that the UK stays on a growth track,” says Paul. “These figures show that although there are still challenging economic headwinds out there, the UK is making important strides towards becoming the digital-first economy it needs to be.  

Businesses need to know the UK is open for business – and we’re there to help them wherever the path takes them.”  

Wherever you are in your growth journey, getting the right advice and support from an accountancy practice is vital. That’s why at Paul Beare Ltd we offer a full range of accounting services, from tax and payroll to accounting and banking.