Aldrich Uncertainty Report

INTRODUCTION

REPORT FINDINGS

A Message from our CEO

Five Key Findings from the Aldrich Uncertainty Report The Aldrich Uncertainty Report highlights how private company leaders across the Western US are adapting to an evolving business landscape. Despite continued challenges including rising costs, tariffs, and higher interest rates, leaders are concentrating on what they can control: strengthening operations, planning proactively, and protecting their people and legacy. The following five themes reflect how business owners are approaching uncertainty with confidence and long-term focus.

Across the Western United States, private company leaders continue to face a business environment defined by complexity and change. From shifting interest rates and tariffs to talent shortages and supply chain pressures, uncertainty remains a constant. Yet, what stands out in this year’s Aldrich Uncertainty Report is the determination and adaptability of the leaders shaping our region’s private companies. This report captures insights from more than 60 owners and executives across industries and geographies who are not only responding to today’s challenges but preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities. Their focus on scenario planning, strategic flexibility, and continuity for employees and clients reflects a strong, values-driven approach to leadership. At Aldrich, we believe confidence in uncertain times comes from clarity of purpose, of financial insight, and of long-term planning. Our role is to provide the tools, data, and perspective to help business owners make informed decisions and move forward with intention. Navigating Uncertainty with Confidence and Purpose

1 Uncertainty is Being Met with Resilience While 45% of leaders are optimistic about their company’s outlook for the coming year, only 31% feel confident in their ability to adapt to external disruption (economic conditions, tariffs, etc.). Leaders are taking practical steps to strengthen flexibility including refining financial models, diversifying suppliers, and aligning leadership teams to respond quickly to change. This measured optimism reflects a shift toward preparation rather than prediction, building the capacity to adapt regardless of what comes next. 2 Strategic Flexibility is the New Advantage Seventy-five percent of leaders have updated their strategic plans to reflect current conditions, and 65% see scenario planning as the most valuable tool for the year ahead. Many are slowing capital investments (81%) or adjusting supply chains (79%) to preserve liquidity and options. Leaders who regularly test assumptions and plan for multiple outcomes are better positioned to stay ahead of shifting market dynamics. 3 Technology and Data Offer Potential Only 37% of leaders are confident in their team’s ability to identify and implement the right technology, and just 16% rate their use of financial data for decision-making as excellent. For many, improving data visibility and digital capabilities remains a significant opportunity. Companies that invest in processes and systems supporting real-time insight and smarter operations can respond faster and make better-informed decisions in a competitive market.

4 People and Continuity Lead Transition Planning

Fifty-eight percent of owners said ensuring stability for employees and clients is their top transition priority, followed by finding the right successor (53%). Only 45% ranked maximizing sale value first. With 76% receiving unsolicited offers to sell in the past year, early, people-centered planning allows leaders to protect their culture and legacy while remaining ready to act when opportunity arises. 5 The OBBBA Brings New Opportunities and New Considerations The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduces a broad range of updates to the tax code. Nearly all leaders have some level of understanding (95%) about the potential impact their company’s financial planning or operations. Working closely with experienced advisors can help uncover opportunities, manage risks, and ensure planning decisions support both near-term performance and long-term financial success. The 2025 findings underscore the power of insights, not uncertainty, in driving confident leadership. At Aldrich, we help business owners turn data into direction— building personalized strategies that align with your business vision and personal goals for lasting success.

John Lauseng CEO + Partner Aldrich

Insights Not Uncertainty

Aldrich’s 50-year history of partnering with businesses, their owners, and their employees has shown us that success is not achieved in isolation. It requires collaboration, innovation, and a clear alignment of business goals with actionable strategies. From tax planning and accounting to business transitions and wealth management, we’re here to help you navigate every phase of your business and personal life cycle.

About Aldrich

The Aldrich Group of Companies

For more than 50 years, Aldrich has helped businesses, their owners, and their employees achieve their professional and personal financial goals. We pair deep industry experience with a full suite of integrated financial, tax, accounting, wealth, corporate retirement, and business transition services to help bring clarity to every phase of our client’s personal and professional life cycles. Based in Oregon since our founding in 1973, Aldrich now serves clients across the country from our eight offices throughout the Western US.

Aldrich CPAs + Advisors LLP, one of the top 70 accounting firms in the US (Accounting Today) Aldrich Wealth LP, a Registered Investment Advisory firm with over $6.5B in assets under advisement Aldrich Capital Advisors LP, which provides advisory services for business transactions

www.aldrichadvisors.com/about

Aldrich Uncertainty Report | Q4 2025

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