Business leaders are increasingly concerned about current challenges – but they’re also hopeful

Our pulse survey of C-suite executives reveals the understandable worry organizations are feeling, and the shifts they’re making to survive and thrive.

In this three-part report on the Crowe Business Challenges Survey, you’ll see how businesses across sectors are reacting to setbacks, including their top concerns and how they’re paving the way for their organizations to move forward.

Part III

71% of businesses are at least somewhat optimistic going into 2021

Amid the sudden business shifts and economic slowdowns, businesses are cautiously optimistic moving forward. See our latest data and analysis of how organizations are adapting to the new normal.
 

View the final survey results

Part I

Overall business sentiment and actions companies are taking

Nearly three out of four companies expect at least a moderate revenue decrease in 2020, and have little certainty on when COVID-19’s impact will lessen, according to survey results from late April to June 2020.

Download Part I report

Part II

Concern is growing significantly

In Part II of our report, 68% of executives in the last weeks of July 2020 noted high concern about the pandemic, up from 51% from the previous period – a staggering 17-point jump.

Download Part II report

Turn today’s obstacles into tomorrow’s opportunities
Get insights into how businesses are meeting challenges head-on.

In the news

58% said the coronavirus was a major concern. 52% said an economic recession was a major concern.
11/2/2020

Fox Business

Trump-Biden election's potential impact has 44% of business execs worried for their organization
"People and companies have shown that they want to invest in their people. And I think with that will come a level of loyalty from employees, because they're feeling cared for"
10/28/2020

Consulting Magazine

One on one with Crowe's Ann Lathrop
70% expect a moderate or severe decrease in their 2020 revenue
10/1/2020

Inside Public Accounting

Survey: Executives on edge after summer virus spikes
Trump-Biden election's potential impact has 44% of business execs worried for their organization
One on one with Crowe's Ann Lathrop
Survey: Executives on edge after summer virus spikes
93% of public sector respondents are highly or moderately concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on their organization
9/30/2020

CPA Practice Advisor

COVID-19 spike raises concern of business executives
79% of respondents applied for PPP or considered it
8/28/2020

AiThority

Survey finds 72% of executives expect a decrease in revenue due to COVID-19
14% of financial companies predict a severe decrease in 2020 revenues over the previous year
8/28/2020

ABA Risk and Compliance

Survey: Financial firms split on when COVID-19 effects expected to ease
COVID-19 spike raises concern of business executives
Survey finds 72% of executives expect a decrease in revenue due to COVID-19
Survey: Financial firms split on when COVID-19 effects expected to ease

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We’re listening, and we’re ready to help

Our survey reflects the concerns of businesses in a variety of industries, such as financial services, manufacturing and distribution, construction, healthcare, and the public sector. The results help us tailor our services and create new solutions for our clients. If you are looking for ways to help your business manage current challenges, from economic pressures to risks and regulations, our professionals can help you from every angle.