Dutch CFOs are cautiously optimistic

Dutch financial directors were more positive about the current economic situation in the fourth quarter of 2015 than in the previous quarter, but remained cautious, according to figures released by Deloitte, NU reports. In the fourth quarter 69 percent of Dutch CFO's were uncertain about the current situation, compared to 84 percent in the third quarter. About 50 percent expect an increase in turnover in the next 12 months, compared to 44 percent in the previous quarter. "At this time the conditions are reasonably favorable", Frank Geelen of Deloitte explained, pointing to increased consumption, increased exports and the low oil prices. "The interest rates are still unusually low, so growth can be financed cheaply." Despite the increase in positive feelings towards the economic situation, CFO's willingness to take risks increased only slightly - 24 percent in the fourth quarter, 21 percent in the third. "There are doubts among CFO's because of the declining growth of the world economy. Many of the respondents in our survey operate in an international environment. That makes them cautious about taking risks and investing."