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Small Business Most Optimistic Since 2006

Jan. 15, 2015
management

Optimism among small businesses in December reached its highest level since October 2006, the National Federation of Independent Business has reported, providing fresh evidence that Main Street is finally sharing in the economic recovery that has fueled major corporations and the stock market.

The Small Business Optimism Index gained 2.3 points to 100.4, taking the index back to its pre-recession average.

“The index showed some strength in November but most of the gains were confined to just two categories,” said NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg. “The December index shows much broader strength led by a significant increase in sales expectations.”

Read more on small business optimism on IndustryWeek.

IndustryWeek is an NED companion site within Penton's Manufacturing & Supply Chain Group.