AI Boom Dominated Headlines, Not GDP Math Artificial intelligence dominated financial headlines throughout 2025, with massive investments in data centers, chips, and software reshaping markets. From soaring tech valuations to record bond issuance funding AI infrastructure, many observers concluded AI was the primary force keeping the U.S. economy afloat. However, fresh economic analysis suggests that…
US Executives Show Confidence Despite Uncertainty American business leaders are entering 2026 with unusually high confidence, even as economic uncertainty, trade disruption, and geopolitical risks persist. A recent survey of senior executives reveals that optimism remains widespread, driven less by favorable conditions and more by confidence in execution. Nearly all respondents expect revenue growth in…
Spending Continues, but the Mood Has Shifted U.S. consumers entered 2026 still spending, but with a noticeably different posture than in prior years. Retail sales remain positive, travel demand has not collapsed, and services spending continues to support headline growth. Beneath the surface, however, confidence has weakened. Households are increasingly spending out of necessity rather…
Spending Continues, but the Foundation Is Shifting At first glance, U.S. consumer spending in early 2026 appears resilient. Retail sales remain positive, travel demand has not collapsed, and service-sector activity continues to support growth. Yet beneath these headline figures, the structure of consumer behavior is changing in ways that raise concern. Rather than spending driven…
Supply Chain Strategy Enters a New Phase American corporations entered 2026 with supply-chain resilience firmly embedded as a strategic priority. After years of disruptions caused by pandemics, wars, and trade disputes, companies are no longer optimizing solely for cost efficiency. Executives increasingly view supply chains as risk-management systems rather than logistical backbones, reshaping how capital…
Corporate Spending Enters a More Selective Phase American corporations entered 2026 with a noticeably more cautious approach to spending. After years of aggressive expansion fueled by cheap capital, higher interest rates have forced executives to reassess priorities. Rather than broad growth initiatives, companies are focusing on targeted investments that promise clear productivity gains or cost…
Call for Stronger Anti-Corruption Institutions The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc has renewed calls for decisive governance reforms in the Philippines. The group stressed that corruption remains a major barrier to sustained economic growth. It urged the creation of a genuinely independent anti-corruption body. According to the federation, proven models…
IRS Confirms Mileage Rate Increase For The New Tax Year The Internal Revenue Service has announced an increase in the standard mileage rate for 2026. The adjustment reflects updated cost data and inflation trends. Business drivers will be allowed to deduct more per mile traveled. The change applies starting January 1, 2026. It represents a…
Rising Energy Costs Strain Business Operations Energy prices have become one of the most pressing challenges for New Jersey businesses heading into 2026. Electricity costs have risen sharply, forcing many companies to reassess pricing strategies and operating budgets. Energy-intensive industries, including manufacturing and construction, feel the pressure most acutely. Business owners warn that sustained increases…
Corporate Bankruptcies Reach Multi-Year Highs Large corporate bankruptcies in 2025 have climbed to levels unseen since the aftermath of the financial crisis. Major companies across retail, healthcare, travel, and manufacturing have entered restructuring. Many listed liabilities exceeding one billion dollars. Analysts note that the breadth of filings is unusually wide. Unlike sector-specific downturns, distress has…
