Overview
- The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index declined 0.6 points in October to 98.2, the second straight monthly drop and the lowest reading since April.
- Reports of rising profits fell nine points to a net negative 25%, and a net negative 13% of owners reported higher nominal sales, six points worse than September.
- Hiring strains persisted, with 32% of owners reporting unfilled positions and labor quality cited as the top problem, especially in construction.
- NFIB’s Uncertainty Index dropped 12 points to 88, the lowest of the year, as the Senate passed a measure to end the shutdown and the House was expected to vote next.
- Only 13% said it was a good time to expand as price pressures eased, with a net 21% raising prices in October and 30% planning increases over the next three months.