The Hidden Strain on Small Businesses Small businesses are the heartbeat of the U.S. economy — driving 44% of GDP and employing nearly half of the private workforce (SBA, 2024). But behind the “American dream” storefronts, workshops, and startups lies a cash flow story few talk about. According to a 2025 survey, 56% of small businesses are currently owed money …
Groceries. Gas. Diapers. These aren’t luxury items—they’re life’s basics. Yet according to recent reports, more than half of Americans are now relying on Layaway or Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options just to afford everyday essentials. That’s not just a trend—it’s a signal. And for businesses, it raises a big question: If consumers can’t pay now, how confident are you …
The fintech boom has been unstoppable—until now. With looming tariffs, global instability, and whispers of a potential recession, consumer-focused fintechs are starting to feel the heat. High valuations and aggressive growth models were thrilling while the economy was hot, but what happens when the temperature drops? Is the fintech bubble immune to economic gravity? Not quite. As the market tightens, …
Corporate bankruptcies in the U.S. just hit their highest Q1 levels since 2010, according to recent data. From rising interest rates to lingering inflation and tighter credit access, businesses across industries are feeling the squeeze. And when cash flow stalls, bankruptcy can feel like the only option. But it doesn’t have to be. At Caine & Weiner, we believe in …
With the repeal of the CFPB’s Big Tech payments rule gaining momentum, the fintech world is watching closely. The move, which could roll back oversight of tech giants offering payment services, signals a shifting regulatory environment where innovation may outpace regulation. But while headlines focus on Big Tech, businesses of all sizes face the same bottom-line concern: How do you …
E-commerce is changing the business landscape, and women are at the forefront—launching brands, scaling online stores, and disrupting industries. From handcrafted goods to tech-driven platforms, women-led businesses are thriving in the digital marketplace. But while the online world offers endless opportunities, one challenge remains universal: getting paid on time. At Caine & Weiner, we know that managing receivables can be …
