by Calculated Risk on 2/11/2014 08:44:00 AM

From the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB): Small Business Confidence Edges Up, Ever so Slightly

Small business optimism started the year slightly up from December at 94.1 but well below the pre-recession average of 100, according to the National Federation of Independent Business’ (NFIB’s) latest index. On the positive front, owners did find a reason to be more positive about their own sales (a huge 7 point jump in positive expectations) and plan more hiring, with the strongest job creation plans since 2007.
...
NFIB owners increased employment by an average of 0.12 workers per firm in January (seasonally adjusted), half the December reading, but a solid number.

Click on graph for larger image.

This graph shows the small business optimism index since 1986. The index increased to 94.1 in January from 93.9 in December - and is just below the post-recession high.  

Also this is the highest level for hiring plans since 2007. A small step in the right direction.