The Optimism Index increased 0.6 points in February to 90.9. This is the fourteenth 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-eight percent of owners reported that inflation was their single most important problem in operating their business, up 2 points from last month but 9 points lower than July’s highest reading since 1979 Q4. Evidence of some easing in inflation pressure. Owners expecting better business conditions over the next six months deteriorated ... (full story)