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Optimism among SMEs at highest level in over a year - Linked Finance

The article from RTE discusses the latest findings from the Linked Finance SME Index, which indicates a slight improvement in the sentiment among Irish small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Despite ongoing challenges such as inflation and supply chain disruptions, the index shows a cautious optimism with a small increase in business confidence. Key points include a rise in the demand for loans, particularly for working capital and expansion, reflecting a tentative recovery in investment intentions. However, concerns remain about rising costs, with many SMEs reporting increased expenses in energy, materials, and labor. The report also highlights regional disparities, with urban SMEs showing more resilience compared to their rural counterparts. Overall, while there are signs of stabilization, the economic environment remains uncertain, prompting SMEs to adopt a cautious approach to growth and investment.

Read the Full RTE Online Article at:
[ https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2024/1205/1484806-linked-finance-sme-index/ ]