Beaver State News

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) released the latest Small Business Optimism Index, showing a fourth consecutive month above the 51-year average of 98. However, it also highlighted an increase in the Uncertainty Index by four points to 104, marking it as the second highest recorded.

Anthony Smith, NFIB's state director in Oregon, commented on the situation: "Thankfully, small business optimism is still hovering above the 51-year average after 34 consecutive months of consistently bad readings." He noted that rising uncertainty is driven by persistent inflation and challenges in the labor market. Additional concerns include tariffs and potential tax increases for small businesses if Congress does not make the 20% Small Business Deduction permanent.

The NFIB’s Small Business Optimism Index serves as a key indicator for America's small business economy and is utilized by various governmental bodies. It provides insights into Main Street enterprises' health and welfare. The index represents a national perspective from NFIB-member small-business owners without state-specific breakdowns.

Bill Dunkelberg, NFIB Chief Economist, stated: “Uncertainty is high and rising on Main Street and for many reasons." He observed that fewer small business owners expect improved conditions over the next six months, with a decline in those viewing it as a good time to expand.

Key findings from the latest index include:

- A net percentage drop of ten points among owners expecting economic improvement since January.

- Only twelve percent consider it a good time to expand their business, down five points from January.

- Inflation concerns decreased slightly but remain significant behind labor quality issues.

- A seasonally adjusted net 29% plan price hikes within three months—the highest in 11 months.

For ongoing updates on Oregon's small-business news, visit www.nfib.com or follow @NFIB_OR on X.

NFIB has advocated for America's small businesses for over eight decades at both federal and state levels. As a nonprofit organization founded in 1943, it remains committed to supporting independent businesses across the nation.