CII Business Confidence Index Reaches Five-Quarter High Amid Strong Domestic Demand

The Confederation of Indian Industry's Business Confidence Index rose to a five-quarter high of 66.5 in Q3 FY26, driven by strong domestic demand, GST rate cuts, and festive consumption. Two-thirds of firms reported higher demand in Q2 FY26, with 72% expecting further growth. Investment and hiring intentions remain robust, while 69% anticipate an RBI repo rate cut by Q4 FY26. CII expects continued reforms in the upcoming Union Budget, proposing a Rs 150 lakh crore National Infrastructure Pipeline 2.0 and a strategic development fund to sustain growth amid global uncertainties.