According to the NBU Business Activity Expectations Index, after five months of declining sentiment, Ukrainian businesses have improved their expectations: the increase in sea and rail transportation, the preservation of a stable situation on the foreign exchange market, low inflationary expectations, and the seasonal revival of business activity all contributed to the improved outlook. In March 2024, the index rose to 52 from 47.5 points in February, exceeding the neutral level (50 points). Trade enterprises remain the most optimistic among economic sectors, with the index rising to 55.1 from 50.1. The industrial enterprises index was 51 in March (48.3 in February). Construction companies significantly improved their economic performance ratings: the index was 53.5 versus 43.7. And for the first time since October 2021, companies in the service sector gave optimistic estimates: the index rose to 50.6 from 45.3. Enterprises from all sectors expect a further increase in the price of their own products or services. Employment estimates have improved but are mixed. Construction and trade enterprises are set for a slight increase in the number of employees, but in industry and the service sector, staff reductions are expected. (ICE LEOPOLI)

Fonte notizia: Ukrainian Business News www.ubn.news