Beaver State News

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has reported a significant rise in small business optimism, marking the highest level since the fourth quarter of 1983. The Small Business Optimism Index indicates that the net percentage of owners expecting economic improvement has increased by 16 points to a net 52%, seasonally adjusted.

Additionally, there is a notable increase in the number of small business owners who believe it is a good time to expand their operations. This figure rose six points to 20%, seasonally adjusted, which is the highest since February 2020.

Anthony Smith, NFIB's state director for Oregon, remarked on the positive national outlook: “Congratulations to those who took the oath of office on Monday,” he said. “Today’s good national news will give legislators something to build on when they re-convene for regular business on January 21. Small businesses nationally are finally seeing some light at the end of the tunnel for the first time in five years. State policies can either build on this good news or minimize its full, beneficial impact. NFIB will work to point lawmakers in the right direction.”

Bill Dunkelberg, NFIB Chief Economist, added that "optimism on Main Street continues to grow with the improved economic outlook following the election." He emphasized that small business owners feel more hopeful about future economic conditions due to anticipated pro-business policies and legislation.

The report highlights several key findings from the latest index:

- The net percentage of owners expecting higher real sales volumes increased by eight points to a net 22%, seasonally adjusted.

- A net 6% (seasonally adjusted) of owners plan inventory investment in upcoming months, up five points from November and reaching its highest reading since December 2021.

For further information and updates regarding Oregon's small-business landscape, interested parties can visit www.nfib.com or follow @NFIB_OR on Twitter.

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