The Net Percentage of Domestic Banks Tightening Standards measures the share of banks tightening their lending standards for Commercial & Industrial (C&I) loans minus those easing. A reading above zero means more banks are tightening — making it harder for businesses to borrow — while negative readings indicate easing conditions. Historically, sharp spikes have preceded or coincided with recessions. The Large and Middle-Market series covers firms with annual revenues above $50 million; Small Firms covers businesses with under $7.5 million in receipts. Data is collected quarterly via the Fed's Senior Loan Officer Opinion Survey and published by FRED.