09.09.202510:12:36UTC+00US Small Business Optimism Hits Seven-Month High

The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index increased by 0.5 points to reach 100.8 in August 2025. This marks the highest level since January, though it remains slightly below the anticipated market figure of 101.0. Business owners have noted stronger sales expectations alongside improved earnings. The net percentage of businesses expecting an increase in real sales volumes rose by 6 points to 12%. Wage pressures continue to be a focal point, with a net 29% of business owners increasing compensation—up by 2 points compared to July—and another 20% planning to do so in the upcoming three months, up by 3 points. This could imply a more persistent inflationary trend as these cost increases are likely to be transferred to consumers. On Main Street, the quality of labor continues to be the paramount concern for 21% of owners, remaining unchanged since July. Furthermore, 32% of owners reported having job openings that they are unable to fill, which is a slight decrease of 1 point from July but is still significantly high historically. The last instance when this indicator was below 32% was in July 2020.