Businesses aren’t spending. Can tax reform change that?

The sweeping tax overhaul plans from President Trump and House Republicans attempt to address an enduring mystery of the economic recovery: Why are U.S. businesses, flush with cash, so unwilling to spend it?

By investing more in factories, stores, equipment and new employees, companies could provide a sorely needed boost to the lackluster U.S. economy.

But many business owners have been hesitant to open their wallets. They are wary of another downturn, and some sectors are struggling against low oil prices and a rising dollar that makes exports more expensive.

Business investment has been weak for the last couple of years, dragging down economic growth.