Business Trends for 2026
By Joe Anderson, CPCU, ARM AFSB, CBRA
Principal & Fractional Chief Risk Officer
Timely article by Marc Emmer with Vistage Worldwide, Inc. His list of 2026 emerging issues for business owners brings good clarity to the future. Here are a few:
1) A cooling economy with persistent inflationary pressure.
2) A shrinking and disengaged workforce.
3) The mainstreaming of artificial intelligence into every business function.
I like these focus points for businesses (there are more here too):
A) Adaptability is the new moat - The ability to learn, iterate, and pivot will define success.
B) Culture drives performance — Leadership quality, trust, and development matter more than pay.
C) Productivity is the new profit lever — Focus on tech and process redesign, not just headcount.
In a world too obsessed with work/life balance and ideal job criteria, these tried-and-true character traits continue to drive success in life and business:
A) Be agile. This means finding new ways to add value and seeking to be extra helpful when you can.
B) Build positive culture. This means being thankful for all God has provided, seeing the best in others, and investing in them.
C) Produce and work smarter. Hard work only pays off mainly if it is directed on the best course. Listen to what the corporate team and market needs are and act to meet one, then another.
