What is your outlook for the Central Massachusetts economy for the rest of 2026?

In February, the Massachusetts Business Confidence Index entered optimistic territory for the first time in a year. The Associated Industries of Massachusetts said economic growth and federal tax policies were helping boost sentiment among employers. However, the survey was conducted before the U.S. entered the war with Iran on Feb. 28. The conflict could affect energy prices, inflation, and supply chains, according to UMass Dartmouth economist Michael Goodman, leaving uncertainty about whether the state’s improving outlook will hold.