Survey: Small businesses feel optimistic about the economy after the election

A recent survey shows small business owners are feeling more optimistic about the economy following the election.

The National Federation of Independent Businesses’ Small Business Optimism Index rose by eight points in November to 101.7, its highest reading since June 2021.

The Uncertainty Index declined 12 points in November to 98, following October’s pre-election record high of 110.

NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg said small business owners became more certain about future business conditions following the presidential election, breaking a nearly three-year streak of record high uncertainty. “Owners are particularly hopeful for tax and regulation policies that favor strong economic growth as well as relief from inflationary pressures,” he said in a statement. “In addition, small business owners are eager to expand their operations.”

The net percent of owners expecting the economy to improve rose 41 points from October to a net 36%, the highest since June 2020.

Some owners are also hoping 2025 will be a good time to grow. The percent of small business owners believing it is a good time to expand their business rose to 14%, the highest reading since June 2021.

heavy travel day starts with a brief grounding of american airlines flights

American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide Tuesday due to a technical issue just as the Christmas travel season kicks into overdrive and winter weather is threatening more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive.

American flights were cleared to fly by federal regulators about one hour after a national ground stop order was issued by the Federal Aviation Administration. There were 1,447 delays for flights entering or leaving the U.S. early in the day, with 28 cancellations. Snow was falling early in New York and Dallas-Fort Worth International, which is American Airlines’ main hub, was getting hit with rain.

Dallas-Fort Worth had the most delays, followed by Charlotte, North Carolina, Washington, New York, Chicago and Miami.

This will be the first holiday season since a Transportation Department rule took effect that requires airlines to give customers an automatic cash refund for a canceled or significantly delayed flight.

Starbucks barista strike expands; union ramps up stoppage during holiday time

A Starbucks Corp. barista strike has shut down about 170 cafes, according to the coffee chain, disrupting service at locations nationwide during the final days of the crucial holiday shopping season.

The union said it expects the number of stores impacted to hit 300, but it’s unclear if the group will hit that target by the end of Christmas Eve.

Over 5,000 workers in Boston, New York and Philadelphia, among other cities, planned to join the work stoppage on Tuesday, according to an emailed statement from Starbucks Workers United.

Elected officials, including Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey, have also joined striking baristas on the picket line over previous days, with the union asking for further support on its last scheduled day of action.

The walkouts began Dec. 20 at a handful of stores.

— Wire reports