Owners uncertain about whether to expand LINCOLN, NE – The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index rose 2.4 points in July to 99.8, rising above its 52-year average of 98.0. This marks the highest level since August 2025. Of the 10 Optimism Index components, eight increased, and two decreased. Hiring plans improved substantially and contributed most to the rise in the Index. Real sales expectations and…
August 21, 2026
