Small business optimism in the U.S. strengthened in July after eroding in the previous month as business expectations turned positive despite a rise in uncertainty, results of a monthly survey by the National Federation of Independent Businesses showed on Tuesday.
The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index rose 1.7 points to 100.3 from 98.6 in June. The reading was slightly above the 52-year average of 98, the trade body said. "Optimism rose slightly in July with owners reporting more positive expectations on business conditions and expansion opportunities," NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg said.
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April 24, 2026 15:15 ET Economics news flow was relatively light this week even as the conflict in the Middle East continued, raising concerns for policymakers. In the U.S., spending data, initial jobless claims and pending home sales were the highlights. Business confidence in the biggest euro area economy was in focus in Europe. Inflation data from Japan gained attention in Asia.