The findings of the third survey, released in May, showed a rise in confidence in the economy, from -25% in November 2024 to -11%; while it has been -51% in the UK.
IoD economic lead Richard Hemans said it had shown “renewed optimism, particularly in finance and professional services”.
He said the uplift had been driven largely by the finance and professional services sectors, and noted confidence had fallen in the construction and retail sectors.
“As we enter the fourth round, we hope to gain a clearer picture of how businesses are adapting to persistent pressures, external change and policy uncertainty,” Mr Hemans added.