The Providence Business News Executive Poll is a weekly
survey of 70 top business leaders throughout the state, representing small and
large companies in a variety of industries and businesses.
QUESTION: Consumer confidence fell unexpectedly last week, causing some
stock prices to drop significantly. Do you consider your present confidence
in the national economy to be rising or falling?
Rising: 80%
Falling: 20%
QUESTION: Have you cut back of late on your spending for regular household
items?
Yes: 33%
No: 67%
QUESTION: Have you put off a major purchase – such as a house or car –
because of concerns you may have about the overall economy or your own job security?
Yes: 33%
No: 67%
QUESTION: Do you expect to purchase a luxury item – like a big screen television
or new computer system – over the course of the next six months?
Yes: 40%
No: 60%
QUESTION: Do you have a budget set aside for 2003 holiday shopping or will
you spend as it comes along?
Budget in place: 13%
Take it as it comes: 87%
