From Uncertainty to Action: What the Latest Business Survey Reveals

In this episode of Poised for Exit, Peter Pluimer of Old National Bank shares insights from the bank’s latest State of Business Report and what business owners across the Midwest are saying about today’s opportunities, challenges, and economic uncertainty.The conversation explores how business owners are moving forward despite uncertainty, from investing in their workforce and accessing capital to addressing growing cybersecurity risks. Peter also discusses what he’s seeing in the lending environment and why waiting for the “perfect” interest rate can sometimes hold businesses back from making investments that support growth and long-term value.Peter also shares what the survey revealed about AI adoption, including how many businesses are still in the early stages of putting AI into practice. He discusses how Old National Bank is incorporating AI internally and shares a real-world example of how one business used AI to analyze financial data, identify underperforming equipment, and make more informed operational decisions.Connect with Peter PluimerhereLearn more about Old National BankhereView The State of Business Survey Report 2026 hereLearn more and register for the 2026 M&A Summit here🎟️ Complimentary registration code: PFE2026Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor