US small business confidence rises at highest since February
WASHINGTON: US small business confidence rose last month to its highest since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic earlier this year with more firms experiencing an uptick in foot traffic and sales, according to a monthly survey released on Tuesday.
The National Federation of Independent Business Optimism Index rose 3.8 points to a reading of 104 in September, the highest level since February. After crashing to a seven-year low in April, the index has rebounded sharply as restrictions imposed on businesses and consumers to contain the spread of COVID-19 have continued easing.
Nine of the index’s 10 components showed an improvement, led by a 13 point improvement in business owners’ assessment of earnings trends. A larger net percentage of firms expect the economy to improve as well, and a growing percentage expect to increase employment in the next three months.
“As parts of the country continue to open, small businesses are seeing some improvements in foot traffic and sales,” NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg said in a statement. “However, some small businesses are still struggling financially to operate at full capacity while navigating state and local regulations and are uncertain about what will happen in the future.”
The NFIB Uncertainty Index rose 2 points to 92, matching its level from March. — Reuters
The first and second phase of residential properties at Murooj Lanes, a new neighbourhood launched at Al Mouj Muscat, sold out within 48 hours of their release, demonstrating the appeal of this well-established oceanfront community.
Al Mouj Muscat is Oman’s leading Integrated Tourism Complex (ITC) and a publicprivate venture between the Uae-based Majid Al Futtaim Properties, Omran and Tanmia, now home to over 6,000 residents from 85 different nationalities.
Its latest release of apartments and townhouses are located within the much sought-after Ghadeer District which is set at the heart of Al Mouj Muscat, close to and supported by a comprehensive mix of leisure, retail and community facilities.
The successful launch of Murooj Lanes reflects attractive pricing options particularly suited to first-time investors and home owners, with studio apartments starting from RO 53,000 and a three-bed townhouse costing from just RO 155,000.
The Ghadeer District sits close to the marina and championship golf course, within easy strolling distance of The Walk with its varied mix of cafes and restaurants. In addition, there are first-class community facilities including a school, nursery, mosque, beach and parks, swimming pools, gyms, cycle and jogging paths.