Here's what's weighing on business owners heading into 2026.

Artificial intelligence tops the list—not exactly a surprise given the hype, but the real question is execution. How do you actually integrate AI without overhauling everything? It's less about the tech itself and more about the operational headaches.

Then there's the labor squeeze. Finding qualified workers isn't getting easier, and wage pressure remains real. This forces tough choices: automate, relocate, or absorb costs.

Supply chain resilience is another big one. After years of disruptions, companies aren't taking continuity for granted anymore. Building redundancy costs money, but the alternative costs more.

And inflation? It's still lurking. Even with moderated rates, managing cost structures and pricing strategy remains a constant juggling act.

These aren't just business concerns—they ripple through markets, asset allocation, and economic cycles. Understanding what keeps decision-makers up at night helps explain market movements and sentiment shifts heading into the new year.