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NFIB: Small Business Optimism Improves, But Inflation Concerns Skyrocket

  • National Federation of Independent Business’s Small Business Optimism Index shows slight improvement in December
  • 22 percent of respondents name inflation as the most important problem they’re facing, up 20 points from the start of 2021 and the highest reading since 1981
  • 36 percent said supply chain disruptions have had a significant impact on their business, though fewer small business owners are saying that their inventory stocks are too low
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Business News Roundup, Jan. 12, 2022

A potential peak for Omicron variant cases, the Fed chairman's remarks on combatting inflation, an anticipated slowdown in global growth, higher consumer prices, and renewed self-isolation habits are among the top business news items this morning. National There are indications…

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Boom in Business Formations, Economic Acceleration Create Opportunities for Growth in Connecticut

  • New business formation in Connecticut grows 20 percent between January 2019 and November 2021, well above the historic average of 5 percent
  • Real estate, Stamford businesses are leaders in new business formation
  • Department of Labor economic forecast anticipates strong year ahead for Connecticut jobs and GDP growth, but also foresees some potential challenges
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Economic Summit Set for Jan. 21 with Focus on Southeastern Connecticut

  • Connecticut Business & Industry Association’s 2022 Economic Summit + Outlook set for Jan. 21
  • Event has become virtual due to increase in COVID-19 cases in Connecticut
  • President of General Dynamics Electric Boat will be the keynote speaker
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Sneaker Lawsuit Provides Cautionary Tale About “Made in USA” Labeling

  • Advertising that your products are made in the United States can give you a competitive edge and selling point
  • However, a class action suit against the sneaker company New Balance offers a warning about labeling requirements
  • Federal Trade Commission regulations say products should only be labeled “Made in USA” if they are completely manufactured in the U.S., or only have a negligible amount of foreign input
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A Focus on the Work-Life Divide and Other Marketing Trends for 2022

  • Gartner poll identifies top trends marketers can expect in 2022
  • People are less likely to tie work to their identity, with the “Great Resignation” providing a stark example
  • Survey also suggests that people want to strike a balance between online and offline offerings
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Business News Roundup, Jan. 11, 2022

Data on the COVID-19 vaccines' effectiveness against the Omicron variant, insurer coverage of COVID-19 tests, strengthened capital spending at businesses, worker illnesses in manufacturing, and a call for more support for Connecticut's child care businesses are among the top business…

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Uncertainty Over New Business Aid as COVID-19 Disrupts Operations Anew

  • Bipartisan effort in Congress reportedly seeking to restore a COVID-19 relief program for restaurants, with the potential for additional aid to hard-hit businesses
  • COVID-19 continues to be disruptive to businesses with spikes in infections caused by two variants
  • Some officials are skeptical about offering further business relief amid strong economic factors
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Knowing Where to Start When Hiring Your First Employees

  • Hiring an employee can help your business grow, but carries risks if you select the wrong person
  • Tips on how to plan your first hire
  • Business leaders should take steps both before the hiring process and after the employee is brought on board
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Are Younger Employees Losing Crucial Experience Due to Remote Work?

  • Remote work arrangements becoming more permanent as COVID-19 endures and working from home gains popularity
  • Some business leaders worry that younger workers are missing out on crucial professional development due to remote work
  • Options for improving young workers’ connection to a company
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