Tariffs, tax policies among biggest concerns for mid-market CEOs

The potential impact of trade tariffs and tax policies are keeping the leaders of mid-market companies up at night right now.

With the Trump administration imminent, a survey of CEOs from mid-market firms reveals that these two issues are most concerning and some are considering taking drastic actions to mitigate the financial hit they may suffer.

More than 53% of respondents to the CBIZ-Hofstra University CEO Survey said that they have strong concern about the financial impact of tariffs. More than eight in ten said they are considering relocating production to mitigate these costs, three quarters may reduce their workforce, and almost as many may delay investments. Increasing prices and looking at new suppliers are also under consideration.

"Our findings highlight the profound ripple effect that even the discussion of tariffs is having on the middle market, forcing CEOs and management teams to rethink their strategies at every level," said Jerry Grisko, President and Chief Executive Officer of CBIZ. "These economic factors compel businesses to be more agile, re-evaluate their operational frameworks, and seek innovative solutions to maintain resilience and competitiveness. Understanding and anticipating these shifts are crucial for CEOs.”

The main things affecting mid-market CEOs’ decision making currently include:

• Economic concerns: Consistently the top issue, cited by 55.1% of CEOs.
• Talent availability: Ranked among the top three influences by 37.5%, reflecting persistent hiring challenges.
• Cybersecurity concerns: Growing in importance, increasing 6.7% since September.

TAX POLICIES

On tax policies, there have been some winners and losers according to the participants in the survey.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has been moderately beneficial for 43% of respondents including reduced corporate tax rates and bonus depreciation. More than half say extending TCJA would likely benefit their business while 30% expect no impact.

There is a clear division regarding the Inflation Reduction Act with 43% saying they have benefited and 48% saying they have seen no tangible gains.

"While tax reforms have provided relief for many, the overall impact remains uneven across industries," said Bill Smith, National Director of Tax Technical Services at CBIZ. "The survey underscores the complexity of tax-driven economic policies and the need for individually tailored strategies to address them."