Small‑Biz Optimism Slides as Fuel Costs Spike, Hiring Slows
The NFIB’s May Small Business Optimism Index slipped to 95.3, its lowest in years, as owners flag unpredictable fuel‑price hikes they can’t fully pass on. Hiring plans fell to a six‑year low and job‑opening fill rates hit the lowest since 2020, signaling tightening pressure on Main Street.