Interest Rates May Rise as Operating Costs Grow
Financial professionals note rising costs, with half expecting rate hikes in the coming months.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Economic Indicators
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Are you finding that your household or business costs are continuing to rise this year?
The Q3 2026 Global Economic Conditions Survey reveals that accountants globally are grappling with rising operating costs and economic uncertainty. While confidence rose in North America, nearly half of respondents across the world anticipate further interest rate hikes in the coming months.
Why it matters
Persistently high operating costs for businesses often translate into upward pressure on consumer prices and tighter corporate budgets. This widespread concern among financial professionals highlights the ongoing strain of managing household and business expenses amidst shifting economic conditions.
A total of 699 global financial professionals participated in the Q3 2026 survey, with 70% reporting increased operating costs. Nearly 50% of respondents now expect interest rates to rise in their respective countries over the next three months.
The players
ACCA
An international professional accounting body that provides insights into business and economic health.
IMA
An association for accountants and financial professionals that tracks corporate fiscal trends.
The details
Rising operating costs reported by financial leaders reflect the cumulative impact of persistent economic pressures, which now rank as the top risk priority for 24% of accountants globally. This sentiment is particularly strong in the United States, where 77% of respondents reported increased costs and 45% identified economic pressures as their primary concern. As CFOs and accountants monitor these headwinds, their expectations for interest rates are shifting, with half of respondents predicting hikes as a response to ongoing geopolitical instability and cost volatility.
Timeline
September 1-17, 2026: Survey fieldwork was conducted.
Q3 2026: The survey period for global economic conditions.
Next three months: Respondents expect interest rates to rise in their respective countries.
Money Landscape
This survey captures the current economic mood against the backdrop of the post-2023 global inflationary environment. It highlights that while growth is supported by the AI boom, cost pressures remain a central challenge for financial decision-makers.
If you are managing business expenses or household budgets, these findings suggest that persistent cost pressures remain a primary risk. Consult with a financial professional to review how potential interest rate hikes could impact your debt payments and savings strategy in the coming quarter.
The takeaway
Accountant confidence is currently being tested by a combination of high operating costs and geopolitical instability. Monitor upcoming national interest rate decisions over the next three months, as these moves can directly influence the cost of borrowing for households and businesses.
Further reading
For more on shifts in global fiscal sentiment, see our Economic Indicators section.
Live Poll
Are you finding that your household or business costs are continuing to rise this year?
