DES MOINES, IOWA (January 14, 2025) – The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Small Business Optimism Index rose by 3.4 points in December to 105.1, the second consecutive month above the 51-year average of 98 and the highest reading since October 2018. Of the 10 Optimism Index components, seven increased, two decreased, and one was unchanged. The Uncertainty Index declined twelve points in December to 86.