Moore Thrive Index reports resilience among mid-sized businesses worldwide

Mid-sized companies across major economies are holding on to a broadly positive outlook despite a year defined by conflict, rapid technological change, inflation and economic uncertainty, according to the latest Moore Thrive Index.

The 2026 index came in at +35.1, the same as the prior year. The unchanged score points to steady optimism, even as leaders become more cautious about revenue growth, recruitment and investment.

The index is based on a survey of 2,425 business leaders across 17 economies. It blends views on the past 12 months with expectations for the year ahead across five measures: business performance, revenue, costs, labour markets and investment.

In the survey, 78% of businesses said performance improved over the past year. The results suggest that mid-market companies have remained resilient despite disruption in the wider economy.

At the same time, respondents signalled a more complex operating environment. Geopolitical instability, higher input costs and shifts in labour markets are adding to uncertainty about the year ahead.

Moore Global chief growth officer Jeff Blackbeard said: “The story of the past year has been one of resilience under pressure.

“Businesses have adapted remarkably well to a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty, inflationary pressures and shifting market conditions.”

The survey pointed to a growing gap between countries and sectors accelerating technology adoption and those more exposed to traditional cost and supply chain pressures.

Above-average Thrive Index scores were reported in eight markets: Australia, Brazil, China, India, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates and the US.

Technology investment emerged as a key factor behind stronger sentiment and performance.

Companies putting money into AI, digitalisation and productivity-boosting tools consistently expressed a more positive outlook than those lagging in these areas.

Close to half of respondents expect staff expenses to become more difficult to manage over the next year, while 37% see raw material prices as the main source of cost pressure.

The survey showed that more than 30% intend to increase investment in new products and services, with technology and digital tools remaining the primary focus for future investment.