Small and Middle Market Business Confidence Rebounds Ahead of 2026, Jackson Expected to Benefit

Small and midsize business leaders are feeling more confident about the year ahead, according to the 2026 Business Leaders Outlook survey released in January by JPMorgan Chase. The survey shows a rebound from last June, when economic uncertainty and policy shifts dampened business plans.

Midsize companies, which are often more affected by geopolitical and policy changes, experienced a significant drop in confidence last summer. Now, as they adapt to complex economic conditions, optimism is returning across the middle market nationally. Small businesses, which maintained steady optimism throughout 2025, continue to face domestic challenges such as inflation and wage pressures, prompting many to prepare for upcoming hurdles.

Diego Gordillo, Southwest Segment Head of Commercial Banking for JPMorgan Chase, noted that Southwest middle market executives remain realistic about challenges, especially labor concerns, but are optimistic about their company performance and the regional economy.

Both small and midsize business leaders are increasingly willing to pursue growth opportunities, adopt new technologies, and form strategic partnerships. This bodes well for entrepreneurs in Jackson and the surrounding area.

Key findings from the survey highlight ongoing concerns. Inflation remains the top issue for 37% of small business owners, followed by rising taxes at 27% and tariffs at 22%. Business owners also cite managing cash flow and labor costs as major challenges.

Among middle market leaders, nearly half (49%) identified economic uncertainty as their primary concern, despite improved sentiment. Revenue growth concerns ranked second at 33%, with tariffs and labor costs tied at 31%. Additionally, 61% of midsize business leaders said tariffs have negatively affected their costs.

Source: Original Article