Survey of U.S. energy executives shows strong optimism for 2026 growth despite tariffs, regulatory shifts and rapid AI transformation.

Pathward^®, N.A. ("Pathward" or "bank"), a national bank focused on financial access, today announced the release of its "Beyond the Headlines: How Energy Executives Dealt with 2025 and See Growth and Risk in 2026" report, which illustrates the U.S. energy industry is entering 2026 with strong momentum and confidence.

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Pathward's survey of U.S. energy executives shows strong optimism for 2026.

Based on a survey of 300 U.S. energy executives, an overwhelming 90% of respondents expect their companies' financial performance to grow in 2026, signaling a sharp rebound following turbulence in 2025.

"After a year of disruption, energy leaders are focused on turning resilience into results," said Pathward President Anthony Sharett. "What stands out in this research is that energy executives believe they are better positioned than ever to invest, innovate and help shape the future of U.S. energy policy."

Key Findings at a Glance:

90% predict financial growth for their company in 2026
80% cite data center growth as a strategic influence or primary driver of change
63% say their company is ahead of sector peers in artificial intelligence adoption
94% believe the energy sector overall must catch up on AI deployment
82% believe the industry has stronger ability to influence U.S. energy policy than a year ago

A Sector Ready to Lead

As energy demand grows and infrastructure buildouts accelerate, Pathward's research suggests the industry is entering a pivotal period. Executives are balancing near-term challenges including tariffs, regulatory uncertainty, and technology integration, while laying the groundwork for sustained growth.

"The energy industry is at an inflection point," Pathward's Chief Growth Officer, Christopher Soupal, said. "Executives recognize a significant opportunity to address growing demand and play a pivotal role in shaping national dialogues around infrastructure, innovation, and policy. The prevailing confidence signals an industry poised to embrace the challenges and exciting prospects of the coming years."

As a bank with many solutions and scalable infrastructure, Pathward understands the financial demands of commercial financing solutions across renewable energy, oil and gas services. The bank's customized solutions and strategic partnerships with energy lenders enable U.S. energy companies to innovate, expand and deliver clean energy nationwide.

Read "Beyond the Headlines: How Energy Executives Dealt with 2025 and See Growth and Risk in 2026" for additional insights at www.pathward.com.

About the Research

Wakefield Research conducted the survey among 300 U.S. energy executives with a minimum seniority of vice president. Pathward commissioned the research to examine industry outlook, investment priorities and emerging challenges heading into 2026.

About Pathward^®

Pathward^®, N.A., a national bank, is a subsidiary of Pathward Financial, Inc. (NASDAQ:CASH). Pathward is focused on financial access and strives to increase financial availability, choice and opportunity across our Partner Solutions and Commercial Finance business lines. The strategic business lines provide support to individuals and businesses. Learn more at Pathward.com.

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Media contact:

Courtney Heidelberg

605.291.7044

mediarelations@pathward.com

Pathward Reveals the Energy Industry's Opportunity to Meet Market Momentum