Rates on Hold, the Supply Chain Reckoning, and Food Inflation Hits Hard

The Fed held rates steady for the third consecutive 2026 meeting — SBA loan rates of 9.75–14.75% are the operating reality. 43% of small importers are paying tariff costs exceeding 10% of COGS, and China Plus One has moved from option to necessity. And food-sector businesses are facing the worst monthly food inflation in nearly four years.