A Complex Payment Risk Landscape for North American Businesses Emerges, According to Atradius Survey
According to the 2026 Atradius Payment Practices Barometer for North America, businesses in the region are facing a more complex payment risk environment despite stable overall performance. The survey of over 600 companies across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico reveals that while most report little change in customer payment behavior, underlying liquidity pressures and insolvency concerns are growing. Late payments affect seven out of ten firms, with overdue invoices averaging 23% of B2B receivables. Despite these challenges, businesses remain cautious but resilient. One-third report reduced cash availability, often due to customer liquidity constraints. Looking ahead, macroeconomic conditions—particularly economic slowdowns and inflation—are seen as the greatest threats to payment performance over the next year. Elevated interest rates are also impacting access to finance and working capital management. Atradius experts note that while current payment behavior remains stable, growing concerns about insolvency suggest companies may be managing through pressure rather than emerging from it.
Topics: B2B payment practices credit risk economic outlook late payments