How Small Businesses Have Changed Since the Pandemic

Despite tariff headwinds in 2025, the U.S. economy exceeded expectations and is positioned for continued growth. Improving credit dynamics point to a stronger lending environment in 2026.

• Solid economic momentum heading into the new year
• Improving lending standards and rising credit demand
• Stable delinquency trends support healthier credit conditions

Read the latest findings about "Closing the credit gap" white paper, and what they mean for financial inclusion and risk management.

Key insights:

• Income and credit trends reveal significant disparities that impact access to financial products.
• Demographic shifts across gender, household structures, ethnicities, and generations are reshaping borrower profiles.
• Lenders who adapt their strategies and product offerings can expand their customer base, reduce default rates, and lead in inclusive finance.

The longest U.S. government shutdown has paused official labor data, but private-sector insights reveal key trends shaping the job market. Alternative sources show slowing job creation, modestly higher unemployment, and signs of resilience consistent with the Fed’s outlook.

• Job growth weakened in late 2025 across major indicators
• Layoff announcements rose, but claims remain low
• Unemployment edged up in line with Fed projections
• Labor market stress remains relatively contained

As we step closer to 2026, all eyes remain on the economic outlook, the labor market and consumer health. Experian’s Chief Economist Joseph Mayans, Director of Fintech Gavin Harding and Solution Insights Director Amanda Roth, will provide a look into:

• The latest economic and credit trends
• Labor market and consumer health
• Student loan update