Fiserv Small Business Index Shows Sales Momentum Heading into Holiday Season

Fiserv's Small Business Index for October 2026 reported encouraging momentum heading into the holiday season, with sales rising 2.3% year-over-year—the strongest gain since July 2025. The index reached 146 driven by higher spending per transaction (+3.5% YoY) and improving foot traffic trends, though traffic still declined 1.2% YoY. Gas stations led growth at +23.2%, while furniture and electronics lagged at -2.5%. Essential spending outpaced discretionary spending, and services regained footing with 2.3% YoY growth.