On January 10, 2018 Mr. Thomas J. Donohue, President and CEO of the U.S. Chamber gave an annual “State of American Business” address. In his speech Mr. Donohue reflected back on 2017, but also looked ahead. U.S. grew in 2017 and, without unpredictable circumstances, is expected to grow even stronger in 2018 and 2019. Unemployment is at one of the lowest rates in the past 20 years. 

Business optimism is rising and it can be noted by almost all stakeholders, especially small businesses that tend to be the most sensitive to business changes in the country.

Mr. Donohue attributes the growth and the future positive outlook to the “Better policies from Washington and some states and a pro-growth mindset among more of our nation’s private and public sector leaders”. A possible threat that could undermine growth is withdrawal from NAFTA or defaulting on debt. 

As for 2018 and beyond there are priorities that need to be met in order to ensure continued growth, among other, building the work force of the future, bold education reform, immigration system to meet the needs of the U.S. economy, embracing technology in the U.S. economy, modernization and expansion of the infrastructure. 

Mr. Donohue concluded his speech with an optimistic message “So, what is the state of American business today? It is strong—but determined to grow stronger”.

To read the entire speech click on the https://www.uschamber.com/speech/2018-state-american-business-address