Matrix Markets: CEO Confidence Lowest Since Early 2009 (Charts) *Expectations Plummet*

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CEO expectations lowest since early 2009

Statement by The Conference Board NEW YORK, October 11, 2011…The Conference Board Measure of CEO Confidence, which had declined in the second quarter, fell further in the third quarter. The Measure now stands at 42, down from 55 last quarter (a reading of more than 50 points reflects more positive than negative responses). a reading of more than 50 points reflects more positive than negative responses

Commenting on the Measure Lynn Franco, Director of The Conference Board Consumer Research Center, said: “CEO Confidence has declined substantially in the last two quarters and is now at its lowest level in over two years. Clearly, this prolonged period of slow growth is taking a toll on confidence, and expectations are that these lackluster conditions will persist through early 2012.”

Trend The Measure of CEO Confidence has declined 2 consecutive quarters to 10-quarter, 30-month low of 42 in Q3 2011, the lowest reading since 30 in Q1 2009. The current level is at approximately the same reading as Q3 2008 (42).

Cycle History The Measure of CEO Confidence reached a Post-Great Recession high of 67 in Q1 2011. The Great Recession low was 24 in Q4 2008.

Measure of CEO Confidence (Chart) Below is a chart of The Conference Board Measure of CEO Confidence from Q3 2008 through the latest quarter reported. A reading of more than 50 points reflects more positive than negative responses. Latest survey results were fielded from mid-August to mid-September. Source: CEO Confidence 3rd Quarter 2011, The Conference Board.

Supplemental Charts Below are additional charts of CEO expectations and sentiment from Q3 2008 through the latest quarter reported. These charts are:
* Current Economic Conditions vs. 6 Months Ago
* Expectations for Economy, 6 Months Ahead
* Expectations for Own Industry, 6 Months Ahead
* Current Conditions in Own Industry vs. 6 Months Ago
The overall trend is consistent with the Measure of CEO Confidence. A reading of more than 50 points reflects more positive than negative responses. Latest survey results were fielded from mid-August to mid-September. Source: CEO Confidence 3rd Quarter 2011, The Conference Board.

About the Conference Board The Conference Board is a global, independent business membership and research association working in the public interest. Our mission is unique: To provide the world’s leading organizations with the practical knowledge they need to improve their performance and better serve society. The Conference Board is a non-advocacy, not-for-profit entity holding 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt status in the United States. www.conference-board.org

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