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Small business owners in the U.S. are increasingly upbeat about the economy. According to findings from a randomized PNC phone survey of small and midsize businesses, 55% of the 500 respondents expressed “high optimism” about the national economy in 2024, a notable jump from the 34% recorded in the fall. The sentiment extended to their own financial prospects, as nearly eight in 10 expressed confidence and more than half anticipate a rise in profits over the next six months. Only 5% expect a decline. Despite the optimism, small businesses continue to grapple with challenges like access to bank loans and a shortage of qualified workers.
To read more about the survey results and the implications for small businesses, check out CBS’s coverage.
By Rebecca Meiser
Contributor, Commerce + Communities Today and Small Business Center
ICSC champions small and emerging businesses in getting from business plan to brick-and-mortar.
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