The Small Business Optimism Index fell by 3.3 points in March to 97.4, below the 51-year average of 98.
The Small Business Optimism Index fell by 3.3 points in March to 97.4, below the 51-year average of 98. Of the 10 Optimism Index components, two increased, seven decreased, and one was unchanged.
- LABOR MARKETS: 40% of all owners reported job openings they could not fill in the current period.
- COMPENSATION: 38% reported rising employee compensation.
- PROBLEM: 19% of small business owners report labor quality as the most important problem.
- OUTLOOK: 21% of owners expect better business conditions.