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Experian Summer Beyond The Trends Report Now Available We are excited to announce the release of the Summer 2024 Beyond the Trends report. The report offers a unique view of the small business economy based on what we see in the data. With up-to-date information on over 33 million active businesses and how they perform from a credit standpoint, in this report, Experian shares insights and commentary on how economic conditions, public policy, and other factors might shape future small business performance. Here's our V.P. of Commercial Data Science, Brodie Oldham with his quick take. Overall, the sentiment among small businesses regarding growth is cautiously optimistic. Optimism Despite Challenges There is a general sense of optimism reflected in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Index, which has risen to 69.5. Additionally, 73% of small businesses expect higher revenues, and 46% plan to increase investments, indicating positive growth expectations despite facing persistent challenges such as inflation, worker shortages, and rising operational costs. Government Support and Initiatives Various government programs and initiatives are bolstering small business growth by improving access to capital and providing targeted support. These initiatives include the Investing in America Small Business Hub, expansion of Women’s Business Centers, and improvements in the 7(a) and 504 Loan Programs, all aimed at facilitating job creation, growth, and sustainability. Technological Adaptation The adoption of AI and other advanced technologies by small businesses is enhancing operational efficiency and cutting costs. A significant increase in the use of AI-driven systems, such as CRM and automated inventory management, indicates that small businesses are leveraging technology to drive growth and stay competitive. Resilience Amid Economic Pressures Despite facing economic headwinds like tighter credit conditions due to higher interest rates and ongoing supply chain disruptions, small businesses have shown resilience. They continue to navigate these challenges by employing innovative strategies and adapting to the evolving economic landscape. Download your copy of the latest report and check out more insights on small businesses on our Commercial Insights Hub where you can subscribe to updates. Download Beyond The Trends Report Commercial Insights Hub

New business formation strong, making accurate credit risk assessment crucial I’m excited to share the current Experian Commercial Pulse Report with you. I have the opportunity each week to analyze data on the millions of U.S. small businesses in Experian’s database and discover actionable insights that benefit our clients. Making these discoveries is rewarding work, and we utilize these insights to guide our recommendations. I thought I would share what I am watching through Experian’s bi-weekly Commercial Pulse Report (just bookmark the link; we will update it on a bi-weekly basis). This week’s report includes a study about the predictive nature of different credit scores, and how well a consumer risk score versus a commercial risk score or a blended risk score works to predict the future risk of a small business. What I am watching: Unemployment increased to 4.1% in June, the first time over 4% since November 2021. The U.S. economy added 206K new jobs in June while job-openings and job-quits continue to trend downward. 424K new businesses opened in May. The high level of new businesses opening makes it critical for lenders to accurately assess credit risk. That’s a quick take – Download the latest report. Download Commercial Pulse Report Commercial Insights Hub

Unemployment inches up as job growth slows I’m excited to share the current Experian Commercial Pulse Report with you. I have the opportunity each week to analyze data on the millions of U.S. small businesses in Experian’s database and discover actionable insights that benefit our clients. Making these discoveries is rewarding work, and we utilize these insights to guide our recommendations. I thought I would share what I am watching through Experian’s bi-weekly Commercial Pulse Report (just bookmark the link; we will update it on a bi-weekly basis). What I am watching: The U.S. population and labor force are experiencing a major transformation Aging Baby Boomers are changing the U.S. labor market. The only age group whose labor force participation rate is projected to rise are people 75 and older. Birth rates declined 50% since 1950. The median employment age is expected to grow from 39.9 in 2002 to 42.8 years old in 2032. That’s a quick take – Download the latest report. Download Commercial Pulse Report

Experian Main Street Report says strength in the economy pushes through inflation. Download for analysis on Q1 small business performance.

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Join Experian for the Q1 2024 Quarterly Business Credit Review as we dive into quarterly small business credit trends June 4th at 10am PT.

The Beyond the Trends report highlights indicators which offer insights on labor, prices, commercial credit and economic conditions.