Emergence of Complex Payment Risks for North American Businesses Amid Economic Pressures

Introduction

In recent years, North American businesses have grappled with a shifting landscape of payment risks amidst a backdrop of economic uncertainty. According to a comprehensive survey conducted by Atradius, most companies in the United States, Canada, and Mexico have reported minimal changes in customer payment behaviors. However, underlying pressures regarding liquidity and rising insolvency fears indicate a more complex scenario is unfolding.

Survey Insights

The survey, which gathers insights from over 600 businesses across North America, highlights that the Business-to-Business (B2B) exchanges are heavily reliant on supplier credit. Remarkably, 43% of sales are conducted on credit. Despite this reliance, firms are increasingly cautious regarding future economic perspectives and the potential implications for payment risks.

Payment Delays Persist

One of the key findings from the survey indicates that payment delays remain a widespread challenge, affecting seven out of ten businesses. On average, delinquent invoices account for 23% of B2B receivables. Fortunately, most unpaid invoices are resolved within a month of their due date, which helps to limit aging receivables and maintain relatively stable payment performance overall.

Financial Strain Beneath the Surface

However, this stability may be misleading. Approximately one-third of businesses report a decrease in liquidity, with client liquidity constraints cited as the primary cause behind payment delays. Silvia Ungaro, Senior Advisor at Atradius, notes that there is a striking divergence; while payment performances remain stable, financial confidence is waning. Many companies may be coping with pressures, but it doesn't imply they are entirely immune to the challenges ahead.

Economic Concerns on the Horizon

The survey indicates that macroeconomic conditions are viewed as the foremost threat to payment performance over the coming year. Businesses rank economic slowdown as their leading concern, followed by inflation and cost pressures. Additionally, elevated interest rates continue to exert pressure on financing access and cash flow management.

Gordon Cessford, Regional Director of Atradius North America, elaborates on the current climate: “While inflation has moderated following a peak in mid-2026, businesses still operate in a costlier environment. This, combined with high borrowing costs and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, complicates decision-making processes. Economic resilience exists, but concern for the overall environment is mounting. Companies must diligently monitor economic trends while upholding a rigorous risk management approach regarding customer payments.”

Conclusion

North American businesses are inextricably linked to the payment behaviors of their clients, and as this survey illustrates, the relationship is becoming increasingly fraught with complexities. As liquidity pressures rise and concerns over economic performance loom large, companies must navigate these turbulent waters with caution. The evolving landscape underscores the necessity for robust risk management strategies designed to shield against potential payment failures in the face of uncertain economic conditions.

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