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MNI Indicators has partnered with Standard Chartered to create unique business sentiment surveys in Africa in three of the most important frontier markets, Kenya, Nigeria and Ghana. The Standard Chartered MNI Business Sentiment Surveys will provide a key bellwether of business sentiment and an unrivalled insight into economies where reliable economic data is lacking.
The new African surveys will complement MNI Indicators’ existing range of Business Sentiment Indicators and Consumer Sentiment Indicators in emerging markets. The monthly survey of listed and large companies, and subsequent calculation of the indicators, takes place according to MNI Indicators’ established methodology.
The in-depth surveys provide a monthly snapshot of a wide range of measures including business conditions, production, new orders and employment. The surveys also quiz companies about their views on credit availability, interest rates and the exchange rate in order to provide a rounded view of business conditions. The survey not only focuses on companies’ current conditions but also adds a forward looking element to gauge future expectations.
MNI Indicators has an excellent track record in the economic survey arena, producing the highly-respected and market moving Chicago Business Barometer that provides insights into US corporates, as well as Business Sentiment Indicators and Consumer Sentiment Indicators for China, India and Russia.
Commenting on the partnership, Axel Schorn, Director of MNI Indicators, said: “We are delighted to announce this new relationship with Standard Chartered whose reputation as a market leader in Africa precedes it. Our track record of collecting the valuable, reliable data sought by corporates and investors alike will help ensure this new product becomes a credible measure for African economic analysis. The partnership with Standard Chartered fits ideally with our broader strategy to bring our products to wider audiences.”
Philip Uglow, Chief Economist at MNI Indicators, said: “In order to analyse an economy it is critical to have timely and reliable economic data, something which is lacking in many African countries. Our on-the-ground expertise, track record of producing high-quality analysis and strong methodology, coupled with Standard Chartered’s unrivalled experience in the region, will create a must-have economic indicator for anyone interested in Africa.”
The Kenya and Nigeria surveys will be published by September 2014, while the Ghana survey will be released in early 2015.
