Article Abstract:
A cautious outlook remains for the year 1997 despite an improved economic performance in 1996. Compensation and labor market tightness continue to influence the economic outlook for 1997 as the two have detrimental effects on unit labor costs, profit margins, and commodity prices. Despite a real growth of 2.5% and inflation rate of 2.5% in 1996, earnings among small business firms remain sluggish, raising the possibility of wage-induced inflation. The frequency of reported earnings improvements for January 1997 has declined four points as sales volumes continue to weaken. Small business entrepreneurs, however, have a positive outlook for the year 1997 with regards to their operations.
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Article Abstract:
The Index of Small Business Optimism of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) from January to February 1998 recorded a fall in hiring and capital spending plans. This indicates an economic slowdown in the coming months. Owners foresee unfavorable prospects for growth still due to the Asian economic crisis. About 17% of owners expressed difficulty in acquiring skilled or unskilled labor.
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Article Abstract:
The Index of Small Business Optimism rose by 1.1% between April and May 2001, with three of the index's 10 components registering a gain. Further details from the index are presented, including the outlook for small business owners, small business employment and small business capital outlays.
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