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Optimism among CEOs of some of the largest U.S. companies jumped in the first quarter by the most since the economy was emerging from the latest recession, as the outlook for sales, the labor market and investment brightened considerably.

American service companies expanded in February at the fastest rate since October 2015 amid stronger orders, signaling momentum in the economy’s biggest sector.

America’s service industries expanded in January at about the same pace as in December, indicating resilience in the biggest part of the economy.

America’s service providers expanded more than forecast last month, spurred by an upturn in orders that coincided with stepped-up demand at the nation’s factories.

America’s service industries expanded in November at the fastest clip since October last year, putting the economy’s biggest sector on a robust growth path.

American service companies expanded in September at the fastest rate in almost a year, returning the economy’s biggest segment to a steady growth path after a slump in the prior month.

America’s service industries expanded in August at the weakest pace in six years, joining manufacturers in an abrupt slowdown that may signal waning optimism about the economy.

Growth at U.S. service providers cooled in July after reaching a seven-month high, consistent with more measured progress in the economy.

Service companies expanded in April at the fastest pace in four months, signaling the U.S. economy is firming up after a weak start to the year.

Growth in America’s service industries accelerated in March for the first time in five months, indicating the economy was improving after a sluggish start to the year.