KeyBank survey shows 54% of middle-market firms prioritize AI, tech expansion for 2026 investment
KEY•Middle-market firms keep strong company outlook despite weaker macro sentiment
KeyCorp’s Q2 2026 Middle Market Sentiment Report shows middle-market executives sustained high company outlook confidence despite weaker macro sentiment.
- 77% rated their company’s financial outlook excellent or very good for a second straight survey; U.S. economy confidence held at 51%.
- The confidence gap widened to 26 points from 19 points in Q2 2025, signaling firm-level resilience despite rising uncertainty.
- AI shifted from experimentation to execution; 54% ranked AI or technology expansion as their top 2026 capital investment priority.
- Long-term buy-side M&A expectations stayed strong for 2027-2028, led by technology-focused companies and larger firms.
