National economic survey a 'real downer'

The monthly optimism index from the National Federation of Independent Business continues to defy its name.

The lobbying group's latest not-so-optimistic optimism index fell three points in June to 91.4 — erasing all the gains it picked up earlier this year. Plus, only one of the 10 index components improved, expected credit conditions, the NFIB says.

The problems and worries survey respondents cite the most are not new to Gulf Coast executives and entrepreneurs. The top three: weak sales, at 23%; taxes, 21%; and unreasonable regulations and red tape, 19%.