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NFIB Small Business Economic Trends
The Optimism Index rose 1.4 points to 104.7, an exceptional reading. Seven of the 10 components advanced, two fell, and one was unchanged. This is confirmation that small business owners remain very optimistic about the economy despite all the talk about “slowing.” Expectations for business conditions, real sales, and expansion posted solid gains. Plans to create new jobs and make capital outlays also advanced. Plans to order new inventories posted a solid gain, although there were lingering signs of the excess inventory built in the second quarter. Earnings trends improved, supported by a solid improvement in ... (full story)