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The economic outlook heading into 2026 is not collapsing. It is complicated. And for Authorized Dealers, that distinction makes all the difference.
Inflation is still top of mind for consumers, even as price increases slow. Tariff uncertainty continues to ripple through supply chains. The Federal Reserve is signaling caution rather than confidence when it comes to future rate cuts. None of this screams crisis, but it does create hesitation. Buyers are not panicking. They are pausing.
That pause is not a problem. It is a signal.
In this episode of The Dealer Download, host Michael Shiverdecker unpacks why trust, clarity, and reliability are becoming the strongest growth drivers in an uncertain economy. The core message is clear. Customers are still buying, but they are far more intentional about who they buy from.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
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Why Inflation Still Feels Real to Consumers
Even when inflation numbers cool, households feel the pressure through rent, groceries, insurance, and utilities. This episode explains why perception matters as much as data, and how that perception shapes buying decisions.
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How Economic Uncertainty Changes Buyer Behavior
Tariffs, rate speculation, and mixed economic headlines do not stop spending altogether. They slow it down. Buyers take longer, ask more questions, and favor providers they trust to be transparent and consistent.
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Why Essential Services Keep Winning
Wireless, fiber, connectivity, security, and smart home solutions are not discretionary purchases. They are foundational. When budgets tighten, customers protect what keeps their lives running, which is exactly where Authorized Dealers have an advantage.
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How Dealers Can Win Without Racing to the Bottom
Slashing prices is not the answer. This episode outlines how expectation-setting, honest conversations, and reliability create long-term growth without sacrificing margins.
Ready to see how RS&I can support your growth?
