US Small-Business Optimism Rose in the Weeks Before the Election.

US small-business optimism increased in October, with the National Federation of Independent Business sentiment index rising to 93.7, matching the highest reading since early 2022. The uncertainty index reached a record high but is expected to decrease now that the election is over. Businesses showed improved outlooks for business conditions and sales expectations, with fewer reporting lower sales in the coming months. While challenges like inflation and labor quality persist, the prospect of lower corporate taxes may provide some relief. Additionally, firms found it easier to attract qualified talent for open positions in October. [Extracted from the article]