International Business Report 2011

Focus on Australia

Grant Thornton's International Business Report tells us that privately held businesses in Australia are optimistic about the outlook for the economy over the next 12 months, but less optimistic than they were in 2010. Revenue and profitability expectations, whilst positive, are lower than in 2010 with the availability of a skilled workforce continuing to be a major constraint on potential expansion.

The global economy in 2012:  A rocky road to recovery

We have witnessed a large amount of political and economic turmoil over the past 12 months, from uprisings in the Middle East and North Africa to the tsunami in Japan and the sovereign debt crisis in the eurozone. Resulting volatility in commodity prices, disruptions to supply chains and general uncertainty has impacted businesses across the globe, slowing the recovery in both mature and emerging markets.

Drawing on more than 13,000 interviews in 40 economies, this report explores the trends that will shape the speed and trajectory of the recovery over the next 12 months, including demand, employment, investment, inflation
and access to finance.

Managing through uncertainty:  Food and beverage industry in transition

The global food and beverage industry suffered during the recession and the global malaise that followed. And while measured growth again appears to be the norm in many markets, challenges persist. High commodity prices continue to impact profitability. Consumer spending remains sluggish and limits the ability of food and beverage companies to raise their prices.

Corporate Social Responsibility:  The power of perception

The global economy has changed significantly since we first researched this topic in 2008, and businesses have since had to adapt more than ever to remain competitive. With the economic recovery still fragile in many parts of the world, businesses remain focused on the bottom line whilst consumers grapple with squeezed real disposable incomes. Even in more certain times, there is a competitive advantage to be gained by those
businesses which can demonstrate leadership towards socially responsible practices. In the current climate, it simply makes good business sense.

Mergers & acquisitions:  Global prospects for growth

Backed by stronger credit and equity markets going into 2011, privately held businesses show renewed confidence about their M&A plans as the global
economy gradually emerges from the downturn.