US Small-Business Optimism Falls to a More Than 11-Year Low

  • NFIB sentiment index declined nearly a point in March to 88.5
  • Sales expectations deteriorated, inflation still a top concern

US small-business optimism dropped to a more than 11-year low in March as sales expectations slumped and inflationary pressures remained a trouble spot, according to the National Federation of Independent Business.

The index of sentiment fell 0.9 point to 88.5, the lowest level since the end of 2012, the NFIB said Tuesday. It marked the seventh decline in the last eight months.