US Small-Business Optimism Soars to Three-Year-High on Trump Win

US small-business optimism surged in November to a more than three-year high in anticipation of more favorable economic policies after Donald Trump sealed his return to the White House.

The National Federation of Independent Business optimism index jumped 8 points, the most on record, to 101.7 — the highest reading since June 2021. The group’s uncertainty gauge dropped 12 points after reaching a record high prior to the presidential election.

“The election results signal a major shift in economic policy, leading to a surge in optimism among small-business owners,” Bill Dunkelberg, NFIB chief economist, said in a statement. “Owners ...