CIRT’s Latest Sentiment Index Report Shows Sharp Slide

The newly released CIRT Sentiment Index Report - 2ndQ./’25, recorded the second largest decrease in the index level, ever recorded. The overall index collapsed falling from 67.9 in the first quarter to 54.01. Even a more pronounced decline occurred in the Design Index element, which decreased to 44.9 from 61.8.  Notwithstanding, the sharp changes realigned the two pieces of the index back to their historical pattern where the Design index is a leading indicator for the overall index levels. [NOTE: The survey responses were collected during a period of heightened U.S.–China trade tensions, well BEFORE the announcement reducing the tariffs threat to facilitate further negotiations on May 14, 2025. This timing likely influenced to some extent the members pessimistic sentiment.]

In addition to the market and economic trends, the Report also touched on matters related to:

specific impacts/approaches to the tariffs, including perceived vulnerabilities, cost/timing implications, and related business strategies. Members also provided updated views on labor conditions, including staffing needs and experiences; while also commenting on foreign labor and special skills visa-related use/challenges.

Read the Report:

Q2_CIRT_2025_Final.pdf

Download PDF • 12.53MB