That is the findings of independent credit research and advisory services company, RAM Holdings Bhd's RAM Business Confidence Index released today. The forward-looking index concludes that although corporates lead SMEs, both business sectors were optimistic in their 1H2017 outlook as they scored 56.9 and 53.2 in the index, respectively. He explained that the inaugural RAM Business Confidence Index, covering 1Q-2Q 2017 is a leading indicator that offers a useful perspective on how companies view the business environment in the next six months. "Having surveyed nearly 3,000 SMEs and Corporates, the RAM Business Confidence Index is the most comprehensive survey of business sentiments in Malaysia. "The overall business confidence indices for both SMEs and Corporates indicates healthy economic prospects over the next six months," he added.

Source: New Strait Times January 10, 2017 05:10 UTC