The Optimism Index decreased slightly in February by 1.4 points to 95.7, the second consecutive month below the 48-year average of 98. One of the 10 Index components improved, six declined and three were unchanged. Twenty-six percent of owners reported that inflation was their single most important problem encountered in operating their business, an increase of 4 points from December. This is the highest reading since Q3 1981. Owners expecting better business conditions over the next six months decreased 2 points to a net negative 35 percent. Inventory accumulation plans fell 1 percentage point, following a 5-point ... (full story)