US Small-Business Optimism Edges Higher on Better Sales Outlook

Sentiment among US small businesses edged higher in August, led by the most favorable sales expectations in six months as owners grew more sanguine about the health of their companies.

The National Federation of Independent Business optimism index advanced 0.5 point to 100.8, the highest level since January, according to data out Tuesday. Four of the 10 components that make up the gauge improved and two were unchanged.