JULY 2026 INDUSTRY NEWS AND TRENDS
U.S. business bankruptcies reach a 16-year high
The number of bankruptcies for larger U.S. corporations is currently at the highest level in 25 years.
According to data from S&P Global, the total number of bankruptcy petitions filed for larger U.S. corporations this year through June hit 372. A total of only 371 bankruptcy petitions were filed for the entire preceding year.
Companies in industrial, non-essential consumer goods, healthcare, and financial sectors saw the greatest number of bankruptcies.
Small businesses are also seeing a greater number of bankruptcies, with a 50% jump from the year-earlier period.
Deflation suggests a rate hike is unlikely
The consumer price index (CPI) fell 0.4% in June data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This marks a first since as far back as 2020. While this was expected due to the re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz, the decline was sharper than expected, and the figure actually excludes energy.
The decline in the CPI could potentially make a rate cut less likely in the immediate future.
Consumer confidence is shaky, but the future is hopeful
Deloitte released the latest State of the US Consumer data this month, and consumer confidence eroded in April, dropping 6.2 points from a high of 105.4 in February 2026.
However, the percentage of consumers who expect higher gas and grocery prices in the coming month dropped slightly and discretionary spending intentions have rebounded for a second consecutive month, indicating that consumers are feeling optimistic about their ability to spend money on non-essential purchases in the future.
A 9-step plan to reduce accounts receivable risk
Your business’s accounts receivable (AR) represent one of your most valuable assets—and one of your biggest risks. A new guide from global trade credit insurer Atradius uncovers out the four key risks hidden in your AR and lays out a nine-step process for conducting an AR risk assessment that quantifies your risk, reduces exposure, and supports your company’s sustainable growth.
