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What Do Small Biz Owners Think?

Kevin Cook here for Reity one more day...

One of my favorite economic indicators is the Small Business Optimism Index compiled from a monthly survey by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB).

Since small biz comprises the largest employer in the nation, the commercial mood of these proprietors can foretell much about economic growth.

Issued on the second Tuesday of the month, the SBOI edged 0.1 points higher in January to 105.9, attaining the highest level since December 2004. But the real story is the number from December when the index surged 7.4 points, the largest increase in the survey's history!

What's Inside the Small Business Optimism Index?

Comprised of 10 seasonally-adjusted components, the index is based on questions involving hiring, capital investment, economic expectations, sales expectations, current job openings, expected credit conditions, and even "Is now a good time to expand?"

Bottom line: Small business rules the American economy and the local bosses have spoken. They are ready to invest, hire, expand, and make 2017 a great year.

Best,

Kevin Cook

Senior Stock Strategist, Zacks Investment Research

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