Viewpoint: Middle Market Businesses Are Cutting Costs – But May Be Increasing Risks
Article 0 Comments When I talk with our agents that serve middle market clients, the same themes consistently emerge: middle market businesses are optimistic, but they’re also fatigued and looking for more than traditional risk transfer from their insurance partners. Many owners are walking a tightrope, balancing persistent cost pressures with the need to continue investing in their people. That tension shows up in our research as well. Nationwide’s latest survey of business owners shows 75% of middle market leaders feel positive about their current business conditions, even as they grapple with ongoing financial pressures that influence how they manage expenses, staffing and risk. Workforce strain and investment are rising together Middle market businesses report a range of financial concerns, led by inflation, high interest rates, tariffs, the potential for an economic downturn and supply chain disruptions. Despite these pressures, most leaders aren’t turning to layoffs to control costs. In fact, 8 in 10 middle market firms have either hired workers or plan to do so in the next 12 months. Another 17% say they’d cut their own salary before reducing employee benefits that help them attract talent. Yet, at the same time, many companies are asking more of their...