The National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index dropped by 2.5 points in August, down to 91.2, erasing July’s gains. This marks the 32nd month below the 50-year average. Inflation remains the top issue, with 24% of small business owners citing it as their biggest challenge. Connecticut small business owners have expressed increasing concern over the economy, and uncertainty among them has risen to its highest level since 2020. Concerns over inflation and rising costs continue to impact sales expectations.