by Calculated Risk on 1/13/2015 09:00:00 AM

From the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB): Small Business Optimism Perks Up in December

The NFIB Small Business Optimism Survey rose 2.3 points to 100.4 in December, its highest level since October of 2006, with positive gains in eight of 10 indices, a strong signal that American small businesses could be finally shaking off the effects of the Great Recession.

“The Index showed strength in November but most of the gains were confined to just two categories. The December Index shows much broader strength led by a significant increase in the number of owners who expect higher sales. This could be a breakout for small business. There’s no question that small business owners are feeling better about the economy. If they continue to feel that way 2015 could be a very good year.” – Bill Dunkelberg, NFIB Chief Economist
emphasis added

Click on graph for larger image.

This graph shows the small business optimism index since 1986.

The index increased to 100.4 in December from 98.1 in November.