Small business confidence remains steady in January

According to the CFIB’s Business Barometer, optimism on small business held steady in January, remaining close to its historical average of 60 at 59.5 percent.

Looking ahead this year, many small businesses are cautiously optimistic for 2026.

About 40 percent of small businesses are affected by capital equipment and technology costs.

The short-term optimism index, based on a 3-month outlook, rose by 4.2 points to 52.4.

The index is based on 12-month forward expectations for business performance.