The "Global Business Monitor" published by American Express Global Corporate Payments is optimistic for 2013, thanks in particular to growth prospects in the majority of the 500 countries covered by the study. Logically, Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) are less optimistic in Europe (48%) and particularly in France (39%) - although Germany stands out with 73% of growth forecasts - while South America (81%) and Asia-Pacific (80%) lead the way. As far as business travel is concerned, the survey reveals that "the trend seems to be towards an increase in the travel budget for more than 1 in 2 CFOs (with China in the lead at 84%)", but notes that "France (35%) and Spain (39%) are more aware of the potential for savings in this purchasing family", while specifying that "the main reasons for travelling remain customer acquisition and loyalty for almost 1 in 2 CFOs".
