UPDATE: A new survey reveals that economic expectations among executives in the Boulder Valley and Northern Colorado are decidedly mixed as we approach the fourth quarter of 2025. Conducted by BizWest, the fourth-quarter CEO Roundtable Executive Survey indicates that while some leaders anticipate stability or improvement, over 40.5% expect worsening economic conditions.
The survey, which engaged C-level executives from various industries, shows that 34% of respondents predict business conditions will remain steady, while 25.3% foresee an improvement. However, the significant minority is concerned about a decline, emphasizing a cautious outlook for the region’s economic health.
One executive noted, “The economy is stuck and stagnant, leading to fewer projects,” highlighting the pervasive uncertainty among business leaders. Alarmingly, only 17.7% reported that conditions are better than six months ago, with 38% acknowledging a deterioration.
As companies grapple with fluctuating tariffs, three-quarters of survey participants expressed concerns about their negative impact on operations. Specifically, 16.5% categorized tariffs as having a very negative effect, while 58.2% deemed them somewhat detrimental. In contrast, only 21% felt tariffs would have no effect.
On staffing, 63.3% of executives expect levels to stay the same, with only 13.9% predicting a moderate increase. Furthermore, capital expenditures are anticipated to remain flat, with 50.6% of respondents expecting no changes.
The survey also tackled pressing issues affecting businesses, such as new minimum wage requirements. A notable 68.4% of executives indicated that these changes have had no effect on their operations. However, 24.1% reported experiencing a somewhat negative impact.
Housing availability is another critical concern, with 57.6% stating it negatively affects their employees. As housing costs soar, 39.7% described the impact as somewhat negative, while 17.9% viewed it as very negative.
Additionally, 20% of executives indicated that their companies may require new facilities, with 79.7% stating they are not likely to pursue construction projects. On office-space requirements, nearly two-thirds, 63.3%, forecast no change for 2025.
The responses to the survey illustrate the challenges and opportunities facing the business community. One executive lamented that “state laws and regulations are driving out residential real estate investors,” while another highlighted “unpredictable capital markets” as a concern.
The BizWest CEO Roundtable program, sponsored by Plante Moran and Berg Hill Greenleaf Ruscitti LLP, aims to provide insights into such issues, facilitating discussions among regional leaders. As executives prepare for the fourth quarter, the economic landscape remains uncertain, leaving many to wonder how these trends will evolve.
As the situation develops, businesses and policymakers alike will need to monitor these indicators closely to navigate the complexities of the regional economy. The findings underscore a pressing need for proactive strategies to address these challenges moving forward.
For real-time updates and further analysis, follow BizWest and stay informed on the evolving economic landscape in Boulder Valley and Northern Colorado.
