By Salawati Haji Yahya –
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, NOV 27 – Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB) reports that Brunei Darussalam’s Business Sentiment Index (BSI) for October 2024 recorded a positive increase with the Business Conditions Sub-Index at 50.3, indicating that business conditions are expected to improve compared to the previous month.
This increase was driven by activities such as the Saber Brunei Tourism Festival and BINA Brunei Expo, in addition to the expected increase in domestic spending.
However, some businesses report challenges such as low demand, bad weather, and project delays.
The Investment Sub-Index recorded a value of 50.0, indicating stable investment levels, while the Employment Sub-Index stood at 50.2, reflecting continued efforts to increase the workforce.
In terms of business costs, the Sub-Index recorded 49.9, indicating a decrease in overall operating costs.
Among the economic sectors, the transport and communication sector showed the most optimistic sentiment with an index of 50.7, followed by the oil and gas sector.
On the other hand, the construction and wholesale and retail trade sectors reported pessimistic sentiments.
More information on BSI can be found on the BDCB website at www.bdcb.gov.bn.