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Report: Iran, inflation concern small businesses
A U.S. Chamber of Commerce survey found 53% of owners cited inflation as their top concern, while planned hiring and investment both fell.
- The Small Business Index fell to 67 in the first quarter of 2026, down from 68.4 in the prior quarter, as owners reported reduced hiring and investment plans amid a clear downturn in sentiment.
- Inflation remains the top concern for 53% of owners, up from 45% in the previous quarter, while about 28% of businesses said the economy is in "good health," a 10% decline from the prior period.
- Only about 20% of owners said they were "very comfortable" with cash flow compared to 24% last quarter, while 16% of businesses increased staff over the past year and 37% planned investment increases next year.
- Neil Bradley, executive vice president and chief policy officer at the Chamber, said data show concerns about military operations in Iran, while Chris Barber of the National Small Business Council cited financial uncertainty as the biggest challenge.
- Rising costs are driving greater investment in artificial intelligence, while about 19% of owners reported increasing concerns over providing employee benefits—the highest level since tracking began in quarter one of 2023.
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12 Articles
12 Articles
Coverage Details
Total News Sources12
Leaning Left1Leaning Right4Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution45% Center, 44% Right
Bias Distribution
- 45% of the sources are Center, 44% of the sources lean Right
45% Center
11%
C 45%
R 44%
Factuality
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