Equifax Main Street Lending Report February 2026

This report presents the Equifax Main Street Lending Report for February 2026, detailing key trends and insights regarding small business lending and economic conditions. The report indicates that in December 2025, the Small Business Lending Index experienced a month-over-month increase of 10.4%, although it was down 3.5% year-over-year. The report highlights the stability in small business credit quality, with delinquency rates remaining flat and defaults decreasing. Small business optimism is noted to be steady, influenced by expectations for revenue growth. However, the economic context reveals mixed signals, with strong GDP growth contrasted by flat retail spending and downward revisions in job growth. The report also discusses the potential for improved lending conditions if the Federal Reserve adopts a more dovish stance. Overall, the document outlines the cautious optimism among small business owners amid a complex economic landscape.