NFIB Small Business Survey: Optimism Remains Above Historical Average
Seeking Alpha
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index decreased by 0.2 points to 99.3, marking its ninth consecutive month above the historical average. While this slight decline fell short of expectations (forecasted at 99.8), it remains a notable achievement as it continues to outpace long-term trends. This sustained optimism reflects ongoing confidence among small business owners despite economic challenges.
The index's position at the 50th percentile indicates balanced sentiment, with neither excessive pessimism nor enthusiasm dominating the market. This cautious yet positive outlook suggests that small businesses are navigating current conditions pragmatically. The survey highlights key factors influencing this sentiment, including employment and labor market dynamics. Unlike the Consumer Confidence Index, which focuses on worker perspectives, the NFIB index offers a business-centric view of employment conditions.
This data is crucial for understanding broader economic health, as small businesses play a vital role in job creation and GDP contribution. The divergence between worker-focused and business-focused sentiment underscores the complexity of the labor market. Employers may be hesitant to expand due to challenges like hiring or retaining staff, despite overall optimism about business performance.
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Originally published on Seeking Alpha on 2/14/2026