|
Survey: Small businesses are feeling more
optimistic about the economy after the election
Send a link to a friend
[December 26, 2024]
By MAE ANDERSON
A recent
survey shows small business owners are feeling more optimistic about the
economy following the election.
The
National Federation of Independent Businesses’ Small Business Optimism
Index rose by eight points in November to 101.7, its highest reading
since June 2021. |
Jenna Brashear shops at Julep Home & Gift while taking advantage of Shop
Small Saturday in Wesleyan Park Plaza, on Nov. 30, 2024, in Owensboro,
Ky. (Greg Eans/The Messenger-Inquirer via AP, File) |
|
The
Uncertainty Index declined 12 points in November to 98,
following October’s pre-election record high of 110.
NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg said small business owners
became more certain about future business conditions following
the presidential election, breaking a nearly three-year streak
of record high uncertainty.
“Owners are particularly hopeful for tax and regulation policies
that favor strong economic growth as well as relief from
inflationary pressures,” he said in a statement. “In addition,
small business owners are eager to expand their operations.”
The net percent of owners expecting the economy to improve rose
41 points from October to a net 36%, the highest since June
2020.
Some owners are also hoping 2025 will be a good time to grow.
The percent of small business owners believing it is a good time
to expand their business rose eight points to a 14%. This is
also the highest reading since June 2021.
While inflation has eased, it remains a top concern for owners.
Twenty percent of owners reported that inflation was their
single most important problem in operating their business
(higher input and labor costs). It surpassed labor quality as
the top issue by one point.
All contents © copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved
|
|
|
