Small Businesses Concerned as Job Openings Hit Record High
Two more economic markers Wednesday raised concerns about the state of the U.S. economy, even as gas prices rise, inflation soars, and the invasion of Ukraine further threatens the supply chain.
The National Federation of Independent Businesses released a report Wednesday showing that small businesses have become increasingly concerned about their future.
"In February, the NFIB Optimism Index decreased by 1.4 points to 95.7, the second consecutive month below the 48-year average of 98," the group said. "Twenty-six percent of owners reported that inflation was their single most important problem in operating their business, a four-point increase since December and the highest reading since the third quarter of 1981."
Inflation remains chief among those concerns after the Consumer Price Index has shown for months the most significant price increases in about 40 years.
“Inflation continues to be a problem on Main Street, leading more owners to raise selling p