With low levels of uncertainty, improved access to finance and greater confidence in the Bank of England's policies, Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) are gearing up for expansion, investment and hiring in 2014.

Key findings

  • Perceptions of economic uncertainty at a three-and-a-half year low and risk appetite among big corporates at a six-year high.
  • Bank borrowing returns as most attractive source of finance – first time since financial crisis.
  • 49% say policies of Mark Carney have contributed to rising confidence.
  • However, 59% of CFOs expect interest rate rise by mid-2015; 23% expect rates to rise in 2014.

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