Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at RSM US LLP, notes that capital spending levels are reaching a decade-long high. With 57% of firms reporting increased expenditures this quarter and 65% planning further outlays, companies are positioning themselves for an economy increasingly defined by artificial intelligence. This trend reflects a broader strategic pivot toward infrastructure that supports technological transformation.
US Middle Market Firms Maintain Growth Stance Amid AI Investment Push
The RSM US Middle Market Business Index held steady at 111.8 for the third quarter of 2026, signaling a sustained period of expansion. Bolstered by rising profits and recent tax cuts, businesses are aggressively funneling capital into productivity-enhancing technology and workforce development to navigate an evolving economic landscape.
Optimism remains widespread among executives, as 68% anticipate growth in both revenue and net earnings over the next six months. Hiring and compensation also remain core priorities, with 54% of firms expanding their staff this quarter and 66% planning to raise wages. However, inflationary pressure persists as a significant hurdle; 75% of respondents reported paying higher costs for inputs. To maintain margins, 66% of firms raised their own prices, a strategy 70% expect to continue through the end of the year.
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