US small-business optimism rises to five-month high on economy

BLOOMBERG.COM

'five-month high'

SUMMARY

In July, sentiment among U.S. small businesses reached a five-month high, driven by optimism about the economic outlook and plans for expansion. The National Federation of Independent Business optimism index rose to 100.3, with six of ten components improving.

A net 36% of owners expect better business conditions, a 14-point increase from June. Currently, 16% believe it's a good time to expand, the highest since January. The uncertain economic landscape remains, as noted by NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg.

Despite a rise in uncertainty, price pressures eased, with only 24% of businesses raising prices.