The credit bureau reported a 5.6 per cent increase in Canadian businesses that missed at least one payment in the second quarter of 2025, compared to the same period last year. (The Logic)

Talking point: Some industries are under more financial stress than others, Equifax said in its quarterly business credit trends report, but those tied to international trade and discretionary spending are feeling the pressure most. The number of heavy-metal manufacturing businesses with missed credit payments spiked 12.1 per cent, for example. The report suggests hard-hit businesses are prioritizing their operations by paying suppliers, but are falling behind on loans. The credit bureau also found requests for credit increased seven per cent from last quarter, led by industries that have faced the sharp job cuts, including agriculture, arts, entertainment and construction.