US economy outlook 2025: CFOs sound the alarm on U.S economy: Majority predict recession in late 2025, cite Donald Trump’s chaotic policies as major business disruptor

While American business executives are charting a way through an unstable economy, the United States’ future is expected to experience a slowdown, according to the latest survey of Chief Financial Officers (CFOs).

Will the US Be In a Recession Soon?

According to the Q1 2025 survey conducted by the CNBC CFO Council, most financial managers anticipate a recession in the second half of this year, with 60% of respondents claiming it will occur before the end of 2025, reported CNBC. While 15% of the CFOs reported that a recession will hit in 2026, as per the poll.

The uncertainty of US economic policy under US president Donald Trump was the main reason for the pessimistic outlook, as per the report. Though some CFOs admit that Trump is following on his campaign promises, others are worried by the disorganization and disruptive methodology his administration is using to obtain them, reported CNBC. As per the survey, several executives termed Trump’s policies as “extreme,” “disruptive,” and “a wild ride,” capturing the general apprehension about the administration’s direction.

Confusion and Pessimism About Trade Policy

US trade policy has emerged as the primary concern for executives, now cited as the top external business risk by 30% of CFOs, as per the survey.

With tariffs creating significant inflationary pressure and increasing costs for businesses, executives worry that the resulting economic disruption will be long-lasting,as per the report. According to the CNBC poll, 90% of…