Business confidence fell in March but remains at its highest level in 11 years, according to a survey released on Thursday.
The National Bank's latest survey has found firms remain cautiously upbeat about a recovery in economic activity.
Twelve out of 13 indicators in the National Bank's monthly confidence survey deteriorated in March.
But optimists again outweighed pessimists, with a net 42.5 percent of those surveyed expecting a pick up in the economy. This compares with a net 50 percent a month earlier.
A net 39 percent expected better times for their own business, compared to 42 percent last month.
Employment intentions were stable during the month, with a net 9 percent saying they will take on staff.
Investment was the only indicator to increase during the month.
Inflation expectations edged up slightly to 2.6 percent over the coming year./.