CR Note: Most of this survey is noise, but there is some information, especially on the labor market and the “Single Most Important Problem”.
From the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB): June 2019 Report: Small Business Optimism Index
Optimism faded modestly in June, with the Small Business Optimism Index slipping 1.7 points to 103.3, reversing the gain posted in May but still leaving optimism at historically high levels.
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Thirty-six percent of all owners reported job openings they could not fill in the current period, down 2 points from May but still high. A seasonally-adjusted net 19 percent plan to create new jobs, down 2 points.
emphasis added
Click on graph for larger image.
This graph shows the small business optimism index since 1986.
The index decreased to 103.3 in June.
Note: Usually small business owners complain about taxes and regulations (currently 2nd and 3rd on the “Single Most Important Problem” list). However, during the recession, “poor sales” was the top problem. Now the difficulty of finding qualified workers is the top problem.