The OC business outlook for the quarter starting next week has picked up considerably, according to economists at California State University, Fullerton led by Anil Puri.
The overall expectations index, OCBX, for the third quarter of 2025 improved to 68.6% from 52.2% in the current quarter. Still, the latest number is well below the 85.9% that had been foreseen for the first quarter. A reading above 50 indicates a belief in future growth in the economy.
Interest rates, geopolitical risks and tariffs were the most concerning issues for OC businesses, displacing inflation, according to Puri. President Trump has been urging the Federal Reserve to lower rates.
The CSUF survey was conducted during June 16-25. Just over 500 people received the survey with a response rate of 9%.
For further details, see the July 7 print edition.
