• Equifax's October 2026 analysis outlines a possible 2.6% rise in real holiday spending, with outcomes ranging from -2.4% to 4.1%.
• Small businesses face weaker demand, with real sales down 1.6% and transactions falling 2%.
• Broader retail performance contrasts with those declines: real sales rose 2.6%, while transactions increased 2.8%.
• The Small Business Index declined for 11 consecutive months, underscoring pressure on holiday inventory and pricing decisions.
• Higher-income households remain better positioned to spend, while elevated essential costs squeeze lower-income consumers' holiday budgets.

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. Equifax Inc. published the original content used to generate this news brief on October 27, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.