Published: 2023-12-12T12:42:02.000Z
US November NFIB small business survey - Mixed signals on inflation

Senior Economist , North America
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November’s NFIB small business optimism index of 90.6 from 90.7 is only marginally weaker if a fourth straight slowing, and still above lows seen earlier in the year. Signals of inflation are mixed.
The net prices index of 25 is a significant slowing from October’s 30 and takes the series back to July’s low, though remains stronger than the pre-pandemic trend. However future price expectations rose to a 12-month high of 34 from 35 while compensation plans accelerated a 13-month high of 30 from 24. Current compensation saw a fourth straight month at 36. Hiring plans edged up to 18 from 17, and have seen little change over the past 12 months.