Lloyds Business Barometer: UK business confidence rises to 49% in July, four-month high

• Lloyds reported UK business confidence rose 5 points to 49% in July, above the 12-month average of 47%.
• Economic optimism climbed 11 points to 42%, versus a 12-month average of 37%; 59% were optimistic, 17% pessimistic.
• Trading outlook held at 56%, slightly below the 12-month average of 57%; 65% expect stronger output, 9% weaker.
• Domestic firms’ economic optimism jumped 22 points to 25%; international firms edged up to 51% from 47%.
• Confidence among firms with turnover below GBP 1 million rose 11 points to 48%.

Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. Lloyds Banking Group plc published the original content used to generate this news brief on July 31, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.