Small Business Owners Grapple with Challenges as Optimism Declines
The Small Business Optimism Index experienced a decline of 0.8 points in March, reaching a value of 90.1. This marks the 15th consecutive month that the index has remained below the 49-year average of 98. According to the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), small business owners continue to face challenges, with inflation being a significant concern for 24% of them. Additionally, there is a prevailing pessimism about future economic conditions, as indicated by the net negative 47% of small business owners who expect improved business conditions in the next six months.
