The results of FICCI's latest Business Confidence Survey indicate an improvement in the confidence levels of members of India Inc. The Overall Business Confidence Index was seven notches higher at 64.3 in the present round, vis-à-vis the value of 56.7 in the last round.

This comes on the back of an improvement noted in both Current Conditions Index and Expectations Index. The proportion of respondents citing a ‘moderately to substantially better' performance vis-à-vis last six months noted an increase at all the three levels - economy, industry and firm level. Also in the current round, participants seemed more positive about the near term prospects.

The Indian economy has moved into a zone of stability with key economic parameters strengthening. The reform process initiated by the Government has been noteworthy. The efforts made towards providing a conducive business environment have started yielding results and have improved the overall business sentiment.

About 35% respondents said that they expect higher investments over the period April-September 2016, vis-à-vis 41% stating likewise in the previous round. The companies remain cautious about undertaking fresh investments and about 46% respondents said that they foresee no change in investment levels.

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