AUSTRALIA

Business Survey Confirms Confidence Growing: Corporate confidence in the economy has risen, along with expectations that business investment will jump this year, the Australian Financial Review said, citing results of a recent survey. The survey shows that 42% of 640 executives polled predict improvement in the economy by June, contrasted with 6% who see a decline. Nearly eight in 10 directors predicted a stronger economy by year’s end. A survey released last week by Dun & Bradstreet showed business confidence at its highest level in five years, with companies predicting higher orders, sales and profits.