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Report
Published February 25, 2025
Commercial Commercial Insights Credit & Economic Trends Economic & Market Insights 
                    The U.S. small business landscape entered 2025, navigating short-term volatility as the new administration began implementing policy changes amid ongoing global uncertainties. Throughout the fourth quarter of 2024, the election cycle introduced expectations of tax policy adjustments, government efficiency initiatives, and regulatory reforms aimed at bolstering U.S. consumers and small businesses; however, uncertainty over the scope and timing of these policies led to cautious lending and business investment. Inflationary pressures persisted, keeping borrowing costs elevated, while global risks, ranging from energy price fluctuations to supply chain disruptions, added complexity to the operating environment.
Consumer resilience remained a key stabilizer, yet signs of spending fatigue emerged, raising concerns about demand sustainability. Despite these headwinds, strong cash flows and solid holiday spending encouraged lenders to signal a measured easing of underwriting standards. As 2025 progresses, small businesses must stay agile, adapting to evolving domestic policies and global market shifts to seize opportunities and sustain growth in a changing landscape.
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                        The U.S. economy continues to surprise with its resilience - growth forecasts are improving, equity markets are hitting new highs, and fears of an imminent recession are fading. Joseph Mayans’ Vision 2025 session, “Navigating 2026: Global Macro Shifts, U.S. Credit Trends and the Evolving Lending Landscape,” explored the economic forces shaping the next year - from the AI-driven equity boom to structural vulnerabilities in the white-collar labor market. His key takeaway: while AI innovation is fueling growth and optimism, it also introduces new dependencies and risks that will define the next economic chapter.
Highlights:
 White Paper
                            White Paper
                        Explore Experian’s latest State of Student Loans white paper to uncover key trends, borrower insights, and the evolving impact of student debt on financial health. Learn how data-driven solutions can help lenders and consumers navigate today’s student loan landscape.
Key considerations include:
 Video
                            Video
                        Experian’s latest Commercial Pulse Report dives into the financial health of the restaurant sector amid rising costs and shifting consumer behavior.
Key insights:
What does this mean for lenders and decision makers?
✅ Not all restaurant types face the same risks.
✅ Segmenting credit strategies is more important than ever.
✅ Watch utilization and inquiry trends closely — they may be early indicators of distress.
Check out the full report to see how these trends could impact your strategy!
 Report
                            Report
                        The U.S. economy shows signs of steady growth in Q3, yet challenges remain. A cooling labor market and persistent inflation create uncertainty, prompting lenders to stay cautious while adapting. Even in this dynamic environment, growth opportunities continue to emerge across the industry.