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The U.S. economy,
explained plainly

No jargon. No Wall Street spin. Just what the data means for people who run businesses.

Economy Today June 12, 2026: Inflation at 4.3% as Markets Open

CPI inflation at 4.3%, Fed Funds Rate at 5.3%, WTI crude at $72.50/bbl. Key signals for small business owners as markets open.

How 2026 Tariffs Are Raising Costs for Small Businesses (And What to Do)

The 2025–2026 tariff regime is the biggest shift in U.S. trade policy in decades. Broad tariffs on Chinese imports (54–145%), steel at 25%, and ongoing USMCA tensions are hitting retailers, construction firms, and manufacturers hardest. Here's what to do.

5 Ways to Protect Your Small Business From High Interest Rates in 2026

The prime rate is 8.50% and the Fed isn't cutting until inflation falls further. Here are five practical moves — from converting variable debt to fixed, to opening a business HYSA at 4.92%, to renegotiating vendor terms — to protect your margins now.

Fed Holds Rates at 5.25% in June 2026 — What It Means for Your Business

The FOMC voted 11–1 to hold rates steady. The hiking cycle is over — but the dot plot shows just one cut expected in 2026, likely in September. Here's the plain-English breakdown of what this means for business loans, cash strategy, and the year ahead.

Is the US Heading Into Recession in 2026? The Data Right Now

Three recession warning signals are flashing: inverted yield curve, ISM PMI at 48.7 (contraction), and GDP growth slowing to 2.1%. But unemployment is 3.9% and consumers are still spending. Here's what the data actually says about recession risk.

Is now a good time to get a mortgage in 2026? Here's what the data says

With the 10-year Treasury yield at 4.32% and the Fed holding rates steady, mortgage rates are sitting around 6.8–7.1% on a 30-year fixed. We break down exactly what that means if you're thinking about buying, refinancing, or waiting.

Best business bank accounts in 2026 — ranked by what actually matters right now

When the Fed rate is 5.25%, where you keep your business cash matters more than ever. We compared the top business checking and high-yield savings accounts on fees, yield, and features small businesses actually use.

What does the Fed rate mean for your business loan in 2026?

The Federal Reserve has held rates at 5.25% for months. If you're thinking about a small business loan, line of credit, or SBA financing, here's exactly how the Fed rate affects what you'll pay — and what to do about it.

How to read the jobs report as a small business owner

The monthly jobs report moves markets and shapes Fed policy — but most small business owners never read it. Here's a plain-English guide to the numbers that actually matter and what they mean for hiring, wages, and your bottom line.

What is CPI and why should small business owners care?

CPI — the Consumer Price Index — is the most widely-cited inflation measure in the United States. When it's high, the Fed raises rates. When it falls, rates follow. Here's how it works and how to use it to make smarter business decisions.

Treasury yields are rising — what does that mean for your business?

The 10-year Treasury yield just hit 4.32%, its highest level in months. If you've ever wondered why people talk about bond yields constantly and what it has to do with your mortgage, credit card rate, or business loan, this is for you.