The Optimism Index decreased half of a point in September to 90.8. This is the 21st consecutive month below the 49-year average of 98. The last time the Index was at or above the average was December 2021. Of the 10 index components, 5 increased, 4 decreased, and 1 was unchanged. Twenty-three percent of owners reported that inflation was their single most important problem in operating their business, unchanged from last month and tied with labor quality as the top concern. Owners expecting better business conditions over the next six months deteriorated 6 points from August to a net negative 43 percent seasonally ... (full story)