Sponsored by: Investment Center

Something new in your business?  Click here to submit your business press release

Chamber Corner | Main Street News | Job Hunt | Classifieds | Calendar | Illinois Lottery 

Survey: Small biz optimism rises despite 'cliff'

Send a link to a friend

[January 08, 2013]  NEW YORK (AP) -- Small business owners were slightly more optimistic at the end of 2012 even as they awaited the outcome of negotiations in Congress over the "fiscal cliff."

That's the finding of a survey by the National Federation of Independent Business, a lobbying group. The NFIB's small-business-optimism index rose half a point from its level in November to 88. The index remains near its lowest readings on record.

The survey was completed on Dec. 28, four days before the House voted for a bill that spared tax increases on the middle class and postponed steep budget cuts.

The NFIB says its January survey may more accurately reflect how owners feel. With year-end political and tax issues resolved, they can focus on the economy.

The December index reading was lifted in part by owners' slightly higher expectations that their sales would rise in 2013. Employment in the sector was virtually unchanged.

[to top of second column]

And it was clear that they were waiting to see the outcome of the talks in Washington before making plans to invest in equipment or expand. More than half -- 52 percent -- said they did not want to take out a loan. Companies often borrow when they're getting ready to expand -- or hire.

The NFIB questioned 648 of its members selected at random for the survey.

[Associated Press]

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

< Recent articles

Back to top


 

News | Sports | Business | Rural Review | Teaching & Learning | Home and Family | Tourism | Obituaries

Community | Perspectives | Law & Courts | Leisure Time | Spiritual Life | Health & Fitness | Teen Scene
Calendar | Letters to the Editor