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Published February 22, 2022
Commercial Commercial Insights Credit & Economic TrendsThe fourth quarter of 2021 enhanced the pressure felt by small businesses as the largest wave of COVID-19 hit the US. In addition to the effects of pandemic outbreak of labor and consumer engagement, an inflationary surge, largest increase since 1982, coupled with pandemic-related supply-and-demand imbalances, weighed heavily on US small businesses along with a notable impact to consumer sentiment.
Although workers were getting raises in the currently tight job market, rapid price increases are eroding consumers' earning power. Average wage earnings went up by 4.0% in Q4 '21 vs. the previous year, yet a 7.5% increase in inflation results in a net decline in real earnings. Workers' money is not going as far as it used to. Rising wages, however, put pressure on businesses' payrolls who may be forced to pass those costs to consumers.
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This week's Commercial Pulse Report highlights key economic trends and small business credit conditions, providing insights for lenders, risk professionals, and business leaders.
The U.S. economy continues to face high interest rates and shifting market conditions:
This report features the latest findings from the Experian Small Business Index™, a data-driven tool tracking small business financial health.
Check out the full report to see how these trends could impact your strategy!
In an era of economic uncertainty, resilience can seem out of reach, but Gen Z is flipping the script. Watch this webinar to explore:
The latest Experian Commercial Pulse Report highlights a remarkable rebound for the Leisure & Hospitality sector:
✈️ TSA screened 903M+ passengers in 2024—a 6.5% increase over pre-pandemic levels.
🏨 Hotel occupancy rates are recovering, though still below pre-pandemic levels, as corporate travel remains reduced.
📊 Credit risk scores across subsectors are steadily improving, reflecting stabilizing financial health.
These trends showcase the sector’s resilience, supported by lower travel inflation and strong consumer demand despite economic pressures.
Credit managers, are you leveraging these insights to adjust your strategies?
Check out the full report to see how these trends could impact your strategy!