US January NFIB small business optimism index 102.8 vs 104.6 expected

[mahatmakanejeeves]

News
US January NFIB small business optimism index 102.8 vs 104.6 expected
Latest data released by NFIB - 11 February 2025

Giuseppe Dellamotta
Tuesday, 11/02/2025 | 06:00 GMT-5

• Prior was 105.1

The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index fell by 2.3 points in January to 102.8. This is the third consecutive month above the 51-year average of 98. The Uncertainty Index rose 14 points to 100 – the third highest recorded reading – after two months of decline (tariffs?)

NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg said: "overall, small business owners remain optimistic regarding future business conditions, but uncertainty is on the rise. Hiring challenges continue to frustrate Main Street owners as they struggle to find qualified workers to fill their many open positions. Meanwhile, fewer plan capital investments as they prepare for the months ahead."

{snip}

[progree]

1. GRAPH. Yes, but it barely made a dent to the huge rise since the election

So, they are still thinking they will have no regulations, no DEI, a barebones NLRB (National Labor Relations Board), and I suppose they figure OSHA is next on the chopping block.



But anyway, they have more to think about ...

https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-manufacturers-trump-tariff-aluminum-imports/601220146

Costs for many Minnesota factories just jumped as Trump places new tariffs on steel, aluminum, Minneapolis Star Tribune, 2/10/25
While U.S. steel and iron companies will likely benefit, the manufacturers did not plan for the costs, so many will take financial hit.

And if they planned for them, they would still take a financial hit, just not as large.