In this end-of-the-year issue, we present The New Jersey Business & Industry Association’s 57th Annual Business Outlook Survey. The responses of 1,100 member companies revealed that businesses are cautiously optimistic about the economy. Their outlook for hiring, wages, sales and profits, purchasing and pricing are positive. However, NJBIA members continue to face challenges regarding the state’s tax-, regulatory- and mandate-driven climate. More importantly, a large majority of respondents say they would not expand their business in New Jersey. A large majority would also leave New Jersey after retirement, and most say the estate and inheritance taxes play a key role in their decision-making process regarding the future of their business.