Fact Sheet 1 | Small Business Problems & PrioritiesAug2012

The four years between the last edition published in 2008 and the current edition saw a near collapse of the financial system and housing market

unprecedented government bailouts of the banking and automotive industries,

and the enactment of massive economic stimulus programs.

The immense magnitude and duration of the recession significantly altered the small-business landscape along with the problems owners now face in operating

their businesses.

The 2012 Issue of Problems and Priorities is published on the heels of the worst U.S. recession since the 1930s.

Unemployment is still over 8% as small-business hiring remains stagnant and housing foreclosures remain at historically high levels.

Consumer confidence continues to lag pre-recession levels and businesses are still reluctant to hire or invest even as sales start to improve.

And with the added pressure of high gas prices, similar to price increases last seen in 2008, the likelihood of rapid economic improvements is remote.

While the economy is over 2 years into its recovery, progress is painfully slow as economic headwinds and uncertainty remain.

+8%

To View Complete Report Go To: www.nfib.com/pp2012For More Small Business Information Visit: www.nfib.com

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