Provident Financial Services, Inc. released results from its annual Economic Outlook Survey of 1,000 U.S. business owners and senior executives, demonstrating a clear transition from passive optimism in 2025 to active expansion in 2026. Over 50% of respondents believe the U.S. economy will improve this year, and more than 60% expect their own operations to be in better shape. Sixty-eight percent of businesses plan to boost capital expenditures, with 19% indicating a significant increase—up from 11% last year. The data suggest that companies are moving beyond caution and allocating resources toward growth initiatives.

The survey highlights a pronounced generational divide in strategic priorities. Forty-four percent of Gen Z business owners anticipate their companies will be in much better condition this year, compared with 14.5% of Boomers. Younger leaders are prioritizing aggressive market expansion and navigating global trade challenges, while Gen X and Boomer executives focus on operational efficiency and cost containment as inflation concerns persist. Hiring intentions have accelerated as well: 57% of businesses plan to increase headcount, up from 53% in 2025, and 17% of respondents are preparing for a significant staffing surge, doubling last year’s rate of 8%.

Provident Financial Services, Inc. announced that it will release its financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2025 on January 27, 2026, after the market close. The Company will host a conference call for investors on January 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. ET (Dial-in: 888-412-4131 or +1 646-960-0134; Conference ID 3610756), with a replay available through February 11. As of September 30, 2025, PFS reported assets of $24.83 billion and operates over 140 branches across New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, supplemented by fiduciary, wealth management and insurance services.