by Calculated Risk on 3/14/2017 10:08:00 AM

From the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB): Small Business Optimism Remains Near Record High

Small business optimism remained at one of its highest readings in 43 years, as small business awaits a new healthcare law, tax reform, and regulatory relief from Washington, according to the February National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Small Business Optimism Index, released today.
...
The Index fell 0.6 points in February to 105.3 yet remains a very high reading. The slight decline follows the largest month-over-month increase in the survey’s history in December and another uptick in January.
...
The job openings component reached its highest level since December 2000, but more owners reported difficulty finding qualified workers to fill open positions.
emphasis added

Click on graph for larger image.

This graph shows the small business optimism index since 1986.

The index decreased to 105.3 in February.