Inflation still a ‘top challenge’ for small business owners: NFIB

The Small Business Optimism Index reached a six-year high in December 2024, according to the National Federation of Independent Business. NFIB Executive Director Holly Wade joins Wealth to discuss this surge in small business confidence. Wade attributes the rise in optimism to post-election sentiment, noting a 90-point increase in business owners expecting improved conditions under the incoming Trump administration. Addressing proposed tariff policies, Wade points out that one in five small business owners list inflation as a “top challenge” in their operations: “Tariffs are certainly a factor in that and it just depends where the policy directives take us.” In the broader economic landscape, Wade identifies transportation and construction as the sectors facing the greatest challenges with labor costs and inflation. To watch more expert insights and analysis on the latest market action, check out more Wealth here. This post was written by Angel SmithRead More