May 2, 2014

Modest Growth Trend Continues In Small Business Economy

NewtekOne, Releases the March 2014 SB Authority Index Wednesday, NewtekOne announced the release of the SB Authority Index of small business indicators for March 2014 reaching 126.33 points. The increase in the Russell Microcap Index, retail sales, and Newtek Merchant Processing volume led the trend. The SB Authority Index is up 0.58% from February 2014. On a year-over-year comparison, the SB Authority Index is up 7.70%. Barry Sloane, Chairman, President and CEO of The Small Business Authority^® commented, "The Small Business economy continues to limp along as it is led by some economic accelerators but slowed down by others. Clearly, the easy money and zero interest rate policies of the Federal Reserve have fueled record levels of stock prices and modest levels of consumer spending. The uncertain economic environment and increased government involvement in the economy has continued to effect the slow pace of hiring and low confidence among small business owners, which moderates the growth in the fifth year of this economic recovery."