Among firms around the globe, 71% plan to expand their use of temporary and contract workers, according to the 2019 Global Business & Spending Outlook released today by American Express and institutional investor Thought Leadership Studio. The report is based on a survey of 901 senior finance executives from companies around the world with revenue of $500 million or more.

In addition, 75% said use of contractors, freelancers and temporary employees will be central or important to their companies’ employment practices two years from now. That’s up from 43% who said the same in a 2018 survey.

Overall, executives also expected modest economic growth in the year ahead and the total worldwide headcount is estimated to grow by 9.18% in 2019, and almost all respondents, 96%, expect to raise employees’ total compensation.

However, survey respondents reported they are more likely to have difficulty hiring and retaining talent.