Inflation under the Biden administration raised the Consumer Price Index by 20% (cumulative). The inflation rate has fallen significantly (currently at 3.0%), but overall prices have not fallen to pre-2021 levels. That would probably require a significant economic slowdown or recession. Some prices
“Affordability” is gearing up to be the top 2026 mid-term election issue that will dominate the airwaves. But what exactly is that? What does it mean? What are the politicians seeking office going to promise? Affordability is dependent on two things: the prices of goods and services, and the income
ICYMI: NFIB Research Center Executive Director Holly Wade joined Bloomberg: The Close to discuss NFIB’s November SBET survey.
Wade analyzes November’s SBET survey, explaining why small business owners are feeling
“It’s imperative that Vermont lawmakers focus on making the state more affordable for small businesses and their workers.”
“As New Hampshire lawmakers prepare for next year, it’s imperative they focus on reducing the cost of doing business and helping small businesses find the right workers for open jobs.”
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Dec. 9, 2025) – The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index rose 0.8 points in November to 99.0 and remained above its 52-year average of 98. Of the 10 Optimism Index components, six increased, three decreased, and one was unchanged. An increase in those expecting real sales to be highe
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Dec. 4, 2025) – NFIB’s November jobs report found that 33% (seasonally adjusted) of small business owners reported job openings they could not fill in November, up 1 point from October and the first increase since June. Unfilled job openings remain above the historical average of 2
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 25, 2025) – The NFIB Research Center released an industry-specific quarterly Small Business Economic Trends survey highlighting the construction, manufacturing, retail, and services industries. According to the report, the Optimism Index fell from the previous quarter for all
The new NFIB Research Center podcast, Small Business by the Numbers, launches its first episodes. Co-hosts Holly Wade and Peter Hansen cover notable takeaways from the Small Business Economic Trends report data.
A post-Covid labor market has settled into a new normal
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