A survey shows that 41% of managers anticipate an economic decline in 2026, while 49% estimate stagnation in company activity.

According to an opinion barometer conducted among managers in Romania, 41% of them expect a decline in the Romanian economy in 2026, while 27% believe that the economy will remain stable and 32% forecast slow growth. Regarding company performance, 49% estimate stagnation, while 42% are optimistic about revenue growth. The priorities of managers for the next year include streamlining operations (65%), diversifying the portfolio (51%), and exploring new markets (36%).

The survey highlights that 53% of respondents believe that the industries with the highest potential for business initiatives are energy and utilities. At the same time, 64% of managers feel the need for major strategic changes, but 54% face a lack of resources for implementing strategies. In the context of talent retention, 82% state that employee loyalty depends on the quality of leadership. Regarding training budgets, 56% of managers do not intend to reduce them, and 60% will invest in digitalization and artificial intelligence courses. The results suggest that leaders are aware of the need for transformation, but investment in strategic competencies is essential to translate intentions into concrete actions.