• AMP analysis showed weighted small business operating costs rose to 124.6 in March 2026 from 100 in March 2020.
• Insurance led cost inflation, up 52% since March 2020; fuel rose 38%; interest costs increased 36%.
• Electricity climbed 26%; rent advanced 23%; wages rose more than 20%, remaining the largest cost for labor-reliant firms.
• AMP economists flagged ongoing cost pressure even as headline inflation eases, raising the risk of further price pass-through to consumers.

Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. AMP Limited published the original content used to generate this news brief on August 04, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.