December 2021 SME business outlook -Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB)

December 22, 2021

Canada's small businesses show mixed signals of optimism in December. The short-term confidence dropped a few points in December; while the long-term confidence hasn't moved much. CFIB's Business Barometer® Short-term Index, which is based on 3-month forward expectations for business performance, decreased 4.6 points to 45.1. The long-term optimism index which is based on 12-month outlook remained almost unchanged since November at 62.6. Measured on a scale between 0 and 100, an index above 50 means owners expecting their business’s performance to be stronger in the next year outnumber those expecting weaker performance.

The provincial outlook over the short-term is on a sliding slope, with the exception of NS and AB where it showed timid signs of improvement. Optimism over the long-term is mixed: four provinces are posting increased confidence (NS, ON, BC, and AB); almost no change in NL; and the remaining five provinces are showing signs of deterioration.

This is an excerpt from the CFIB report.

Topic(s)

International Trade and Border Management

Information source

Industry Publication

Disclaimer

The foregoing information is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered, professional advice or a substitute for conducting your own thorough research and review. Before making any decisions or taking any action based on the information provided, you should conduct your own independent investigation and/or seek professional advice from a qualified expert in the relevant field. The CSCB disclaims all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided.

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