New global survey reveals businesses have entered the era of “measured growth”
Business leaders are entering a new era of measured growth, according to the inaugural Nexia Global Growth Insights Survey 2026.
The research from Nexia, a leading global network of independent accounting and consulting firms, shows that mid-market companies remain ambitious despite economic and geopolitical uncertainty, but are increasingly prioritising sustainable, achievable growth over high-risk expansion.
The survey gathered insights from leaders of predominantly mid-sized companies across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East, providing a global snapshot of how businesses are planning for growth.
KEY FINDINGS[1]
- 61% expect revenue growth of 5–20% over the next 12 months
- 54% describe their strategy for the year ahead as ambitious
- 83% are confident they will achieve their growth ambitions
- Team capability is the number one internal driver of growth
- Businesses continue to pursue international expansion despite global uncertainty
Jamie Lane, Partner at Nexia member firm Saffery, who is based in the Bournemouth office, commented: “Our research finds global business leaders are adapting to uncertainty by taking a smarter approach to growth. Most companies remain ambitious and are focused on sustainable expansion, investing in their people and making disciplined strategic decisions.”
The findings come as economic forecasts also suggest the UK is on a path of steady but modest growth. The IMF expects GDP growth of 1.0% in 2026, rising to 1.3% in 2027[2], while the OECD forecasts growth of 0.9% in 2026 and 1.1% in 2027[3], having recently adjusted its expectations for next year[4], which was widely reported.
“The global picture reflects what we’re seeing and hearing in the UK. Many of our clients and contacts remain positive and focused on strategic measured growth, while keeping a close eye on the upcoming October budget and potential tax rises,” added Jamie.
Notes to editors
1 The Nexia Global Growth Insights Survey 2026 gathered responses from leaders of predominantly mid-sized companies across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Conducted during Q1 2026, the survey included 179 organisations representing approximately 213,000 employees worldwide.
2 IMF Executive Board Concludes 2026 Article IV Consultation with United Kingdom
3 Global economic outlook weakens amid energy shock and rising inflationary pressures
4 OECD Economic Outlook, Interim Report March 2026 | OECD
Webinar event
The survey findings will be discussed during a global launch webinar on 26 August 2026 featuring economists from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), including:
- Emeritus Professor Saul Estrin
- Professor Bob Hancké, Visiting Senior Fellow at the LSE European Institute
Their analysis will explore what the findings reveal about today’s global mid-market economy. Registration is free and journalists can sign up Nexia Global Growth Insights Report 2026 – Launch Webinar with expert economic analysis from London School of Economics academics | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams
Saffery LLP is ranked among the top 15 accountancy and business advisory firms by turnover. Operating across nine UK offices and a presence in Dublin, the firm has more than 90 partners and 1,300 people providing market-leading services across accountancy, audit, tax, VAT and business advisory.
Saffery LLP is a member of Nexia, a leading global network of independent accounting and consulting firms.