North American Middle-Market Firms Signal Major Working Capital Expansion in 2026

Core Insights - The report indicates a significant shift in how middle-market companies in North America view working capital, transitioning from a defensive necessity to a strategic asset as they prepare for growth in 2026 [1][6] Working Capital Adoption - Working capital adoption is prevalent, especially in the U.S., where 85% of Growth Corporates utilize external solutions [3] - Canadian firms, while adopting these tools at lower rates, achieve higher returns through early payments, improved supplier terms, and better inventory control [3] Technology's Role - Technology, particularly commercial cards and artificial intelligence, is central to enhancing working capital efficiency [4] - Adoption of AI for working capital efficiency has reached 42% across North America, with firms using AI reporting significantly higher bottom-line gains [4] Future Trends - Over 80% of Growth Corporates plan to implement working capital solutions in 2026, focusing on agility, resilience, and readiness for both planned investments and unexpected opportunities [4] - The strategy is reshaping payment behavior, with companies aiming to pay suppliers faster and collect receivables sooner, thereby tightening cash cycles and reducing revenue loss from late payments [8] Survey Insights - The report is based on a survey of 322 CFOs and Treasurers across 10 industry segments in the U.S. and Canada, assessing business metrics, external working capital utilization, and future macroeconomic perceptions [9]