Explore the latest market intelligence and proprietary data on the disciplined resilience of the U.S. small and middle market sectors. The Q2 2026 BusinessPulse reveals how businesses are navigating rising external pressures through a strategic rebound in capital spending. Dive into the findings to see how confident leaders are positioning themselves for growth and what it means for the months ahead.
BusinessPulse
Q2 Insight and Analysis of Small Business Sentiment and Economic Trends
BusinessPulse Recap
Q2 BusinessPulse Key Takeaways
Long‑Term Growth Plans Remain Intact
Even with some short‑term uncertainty, most small and middle market businesses still expect to grow over the next five years. Many say that growth will be modest, showing they’re thinking long-term while staying realistic about short‑term challenges.
Fuel Prices are Amplifying Cost Pressures
Fuel prices emerged as the leading concern for small businesses this quarter, with 73% reporting they are moderately or extremely concerned. As geopolitical tensions impact energy markets, higher fuel costs are adding strain across operations, transportation and supply chains, pressuring already narrow margins.
Profit Expectations are Stabilizing
While profits remain under pressure, expectations for future profitability improved modestly. This suggests businesses are adjusting pricing, costs and operations accordingly to stabilize margins.
Business Owners Speak: Q2 Survey Insights
Curious how your company stacks up against national trends? We break down the key findings from our latest quarterly survey, covering everything from shifting capital expenditures to the top concerns facing small and middle market business owners.
- Sales, profits and cash flow trends
- Business owner’s top concerns
- Hiring and investment approaches
- How we’re supporting business owners
From our resource center
As part of our commitment to supporting small business owners, we have a library of free educational resources available to anyone. Here’s what you can expect to find in Live Oak Bank’s Resource Center:
- Loan product overviews
- Marketing tips and tricks
- Small business fundamentals
- Live Oak customer spotlights
About Barlow Research
Barlow Research surveys more than 2,800 companies annually across the U.S. to gather current viewpoints and draws on years of data to provide in-depth research on economic trends to the commercial banking sector. Barlow has a long-standing relationship with Live Oak Bank, primarily through powering the BusinessPulse. In addition, Barlow Research has provided industry analysis for vertical selection, competitive intelligence on the digital account opening and lending processes. Live Oak Bank is also a member of Barlow Research’s flagship Small Business Banking program.