US Small-Business Optimism Dips to Six-Month Low on Earnings (1)

Sentiment among US small businesses eased in October to a six-month low on a deterioration in earnings and less optimism about the economy.

The National Federation of Independent Business optimism index declined 0.6 point to 98.2, according to figures released Tuesday. Five of the 10 components that make up the gauge decreased while four improved.

The net share of owners reporting stronger earnings in the last three months fell 9 percentage points, the most since the pandemic and restrained by weaker sales and higher materials costs.

The overall index was also dragged down by less optimism about the outlook ...