According to Business News This Week, the Fiserv Small Business Index remained steady at 148 in September, marking the third consecutive month of stability for small business performance. The index, which analyzes point-of-sale data from millions of card transactions, provides insight into consumer spending trends and overall small business activity across the United States.
Fiserv reported that sales and transactions each grew 2.3 percent year over year, while the average ticket size also rose slightly. Despite steady growth, consumer spending patterns reflected ongoing caution. Spending in essential categories such as healthcare and professional services showed the strongest growth, while discretionary spending in sectors like arts, entertainment, and retail softened compared to the previous month.
The report noted that consumers remain pragmatic and selective in their purchasing decisions, reflecting the effects of inflation and broader economic uncertainty. Retail sales were up year over year but slowed month over month as households continued to focus on necessities heading into the fall season.
Fiserv’s data suggests that while small businesses continue to demonstrate resilience, consumer caution remains a key influence on sales trends. The company will release its next Small Business Index report in late October, offering continued insights into how small businesses are navigating a shifting economic environment.