Finance News and Headlines

Xero Sees 'Emotional Tax' On Small Business From Financial Stress

Xero’s Emotional Tax Return 2026 Report reveals that 81 % of U.S. small‑business owners feel more stressed than in prior years, losing the equivalent of 33 working days annually to financial worry. Rising costs (44 %) and unpredictable demand (28 %) are the chief stressors, with 40 % of respondents even contemplating exiting their businesses. The survey shows stress eroding sleep, creativity and decision‑making, while prompting unhealthy coping habits such as reduced exercise and increased doom‑scrolling.