CNBC's Top States for Business: Catch Wednesday's final hint

Study Overview - CNBC is conducting its 19th annual study to determine America's Top States for Business [1] - The study uses a methodology crafted in 2007, evaluating states based on 10 categories of competitiveness [2] - The weighting of these categories changes yearly based on what states emphasize in their marketing [2] Key Categories and Factors - Economy is the top-weighted category this year, reflecting economic anxiety and state finances [2][3] - Infrastructure is a significant factor, including sites, roads, bridges, and computing power [3][4] - Workforce remains a crucial consideration due to worker shortages [4] - Cost of doing business encompasses taxes, wages, and incentives [4] - Business friendliness includes how states support emerging industries like artificial intelligence [5] - Quality of life, technology and innovation, education, access to capital, and cost of living are also considered [5] Risks and Challenges - The study factors in risks from tariffs and federal budget cuts [3] - The reduction in federal research money impacts technology and innovation rankings [5] - High insurance costs are a factor affecting the cost of living [5] Upcoming Reveal - The top state for business will be revealed tomorrow morning on Worldwide Exchange and Squawkbox [6][7] - State rankings will be available at topstates.cnbc.com [7][8]