US June NFIB Index rises

The US June NFIB Small Business Optimism Index rose to 91.5, a slight increase indicating cautious optimism tempered by ongoing challenges. Despite remaining below the historical average of 98, last seen in December 2023, small business owners continue to cite inflation as their primary concern, though slightly less than in May.

Rising compensation costs are driving broader price increases across sectors, contributing to economic uncertainty for the remainder of the year.

Investment in capital expenditures has decreased, with only 52 per cent reporting recent spending, the lowest since August 2022. Job vacancies remain a persistent issue, with 37 per cent of owners unable to fill positions in JuThe ne. Looking forward, 23 per cent of owners plan capital investments, reflecting a cautious approach amid uncertain economic conditions.

Attribution: National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)