Based on survey data compiled this month by the Private Company Index (PCI), 63% of PCI-company CEOs believe debt availability will be greater or the same in Q2 2007 as it was this past quarter.



This optimistic view is perhaps surprising to some as the cloud of subprime debt crisis still hangs over the mortgage lending industry - its full implications on the financial markets yet to be understood. One would expect institutional creditors in general to be tightening the reigns on the scope of lending.

Small to mid sized private firms ($1M - $50M) seem especially happy to realize this as they share their enthusiasm for the remainder of 2007 in the PCI's recent survey, The Pulse of the Private Company Experience: Q1 2007. All signs point towards planned corporate growth realized through acquiring financing to execute on business plan strategy and staffing-up to support it.

Other highlights from the survey of PCI portfolio companies are:

- 92% feel that the business climate in Q2 will be more positive or neutral as compared to Q1

- 63% feel that debt availability will be greater or maintain the same level it is at now

- 74% of companies hired additional employees in Q1

- On average, these companies each hired 3.5 new full time employees

- 91% are currently seeking new hires for Q2

- 67% anticipate greater or equal availability of capital in the coming quarter

CEO of Entrex, Inc., the organization that sponsors all PCI survey data, Stephen H. Watkins explains, "It's these multi-million dollar high-growth private companies who are truly fueling our local, regional and national economies. Their habits and behavior have a direct impact on people's ability to earn and meet their own financial goals. I'm pleased to see their plans are moving forward unrestrained."