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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June 12, 2026 17:14 ET Major central bank action was the focus this week in economic news. The European Central Bank became the first major central bank to move in response to the rising inflationary pressures in the backdrop of the conflict in the Middle East. In North America, the U.S. inflation and trade data as well as Canada’s central bank decision gained attention. The Chinese trade data was the main news in Asia.