Feeling optimistic about the outlook for the small business world these days? According to the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), you’re not alone.
The NFIB index measuring small business optimism soared to 105.8 in December from 98.4 the previous month. That’s the biggest surge in a single month since 1980, and the highest reading since 2004. (source: Small Business Optimism Rising | NFIB )
What This Means
In short, it means that the small business owners surveyed are more hopeful about the future than they’ve been in a long time. Many expect business conditions to continue to improve over the course of the next six months, with better sales, an increase in capital spending, and expansion. They feel more confident about taking risks and making investments as well.
About the NFIB Optimism Index
The NFIB Optimism Index is the result of data collected by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) via a monthly survey of its members. You can view the full report here.
While it’s too soon to tell if this rising tide of optimism will be sustained and expectations brought to fruition, it’s clear that many small business owners are feeling more positive about their outlook for the future. With small business optimism being an important factor for economic expansion, that’s certainly something worth celebrating.
How are you feeling about the outlook for the small business environment in the coming months? Tell us in the comments!
