An alluring headline that is riddled with problems. Firstly, it’s not statistically true. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 50% survive at least five years, about one-third make it to ten years or more, and about 20% live 20 years or longer. Secondly, many businesses shut for positive reasons: family circumstances change, better opportunities arise etc. And some companies close down but are able to pay their debts.