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flag U.S. small-business optimism edged down in October 2025, driven by weaker sales and persistent hiring challenges.

flag U.S. small-business optimism dipped slightly to 98.2 in October 2025, down from 98.8 in September, according to the NFIB, with a sharp nine-point drop in earnings trends reversing recent gains. flag Owners increasingly cited weaker sales, not labor or inflation, as the main reason for lower profits. flag Business health perceptions declined, with fewer owners rating their business as “good” and more calling it “fair.” Despite a drop in the uncertainty index to 88—the lowest this year—levels remain above average. flag Labor quality remains a top concern, with nearly one-third of businesses unable to fill job openings, especially in construction. flag Expansion intentions stayed low at 13%, reflecting cautious sentiment amid ongoing economic headwinds.

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